How to Convert 2-D Drawings to 3-D

Layers of foam can be stacked and gessoed to create a three-dimensional form.

Drawing is the folding of three dimensions onto two. The two-dimensional representation is fast to create and easy to reproduce. For this reason, drawings are the standard way to document three-dimensional architecture and product designs. However, to reconstruct three dimensions from the two-dimensional drawing requires either actual construction of the design or a shorthand method to create the volumetric qualities of the drawn object. Extrusion provides a method for two-dimensional surfaces to be formed into three-dimensional objects. To create physical extrusions, you can stack layers of foam insulation and subtract from the extrusions using a foam cutter and foam knife.

Things You'll Need

• Two-dimensional drawing
• Rigid foam insulation
• Foam adhesive
• Electric foam cutter
• Foam knife
• Optional gesso
• Optional foam paint
• Super fine sandpaper

Instructions

Additive Design

1. Draw or project your two-dimensional image onto a sheet of rigid foam insulation. Rigid insulation comes in varying thicknesses in green, blue and pink. Cut out the two-dimensional image from the sheet.

2. Determine the height of the drawing elements. Some elements may require only one sheet, whereas others will require multiple, laminated layers.

3. Cut the profiles of the foam extrusion to accommodate the desired height and envelope of the three-dimensional form. The unfinished form's stacked layers will appear rough and jagged.

4. Glue the foam sheets together using foam adhesive. The foam adhesive comes in either a liquid or a spray. Allow the foam adhesive to dry for 24 hours.

Subtractive Design

1. Smooth the jagged edges with an electric foam cutter. The profile of your design should begin to emerge as the excess is shaved away. Turn the three-dimensional design as you smooth its surface, ensuring a well-modeled form in the round.

2. Cut away details of your design from the foam using the foam cutter and foam knife, sculpting a finished form. Remove the foam slowly, because you will not be able to repair overzealous shaping or hewing. Continuously turn the form so the design's surface is evenly shaped.

3. Sand the three-dimensional form lightly with super-fine sandpaper.

Finishing

1. Gesso the foam form if you would like to paint its surface. Allow the gesso to dry for at least 24 hours.

2. Paint the gessoed form using a foam paint. Standard paints will dissolve foam, so ensure you are using a foam paint, even though the three-dimensional work is gessoed. Allow the paint to dry for 24 hours.

3. Repair any chips, dings or dents with gesso and paint. Allow your repairs to dry. Your three-dimensional design is complete.

References

• "Architectural Drawing"; Rendow Yee; 2007
• "3D Art Essentials"; Ami Chopine; 2011