Column Part 1: Setup and Rough Spline.
In this tutorial we are going to model the stone column shown below. First, we are going to model the middle column piece using a spline and the Lathe modifier. Then we will model the top and bottom base of the column using a box and some simple operations. Once these are complete we will be attaching all of our objects and adding detail as well as setting each piece up for subdivision.
The first thing to do when beginning a new model is to search for reference. For this tutorial I have already finished this step and modeled a rough outline for you to use. Below is the image you will need when tracing the column. Save this image to your desktop and open Max.
Column Reference
You will need to import this image onto a reference plane to trace it. A tutorial for this process can be found here. When you are finished your scene should look like the image below.
We are going to begin with the round part of the column. When drawing a spline you must always be in an Orthographic view such as top view, front view, or left view etc. Make sure you do not use the Perspective view since you will not be able to accurately draw your spline due to the distortion. For this tutorial we will be using the top view which you can enter by pressing 'V' for view, then 'T' for top. You can also right click the Viewport Label and choose Views > Top. Make sure the center of the column on your plane is close to Zero on the X axis. This will make using the Lathe modifier much easier.
Now we are ready to create a spline. Go into the Create tab and choose Shapes. From here click Line. Before you begin creating anything make sure your Initial Type and Drag Type are set to corner. These settings are under the Creation Method rollout.
The reason we set both of these options to Corner is so we can draw a rough version of the spline quickly. Once it is complete we can go back and edit the points with greater precision. To begin your spline just click in the viewport and trace the outline on your reference image. Remember to keep your spline simple as we are only doing the rough shape to start with. You only have to draw the top of the column since we can mirror it later to create the bottom. Make sure the first and last point are in the center of the column as shown below.
Before we continue there a a few useful things to know about splines.
- To add a new point, use the Refine button. (Must be in Vertex mode)
- To continue drawing from an existing spline, check Automatic Welding and use the Create Line button.
- If your spline goes out of the viewport, press the 'I' key to center your view.
Don't be afraid to delete your spline and re-draw it until you are happy. Once you have a rough spline that you like, head over to Part 2 to see how to refine your spline.