"The Horseman"
View rotating computer image
A 5.5 inch high sculpture
Modeled in a 3D computer program, the computer file is sent to a service bureau that makes a "3d print" - a plaster-like figurine (there are also other processes that produce different materials with varying degrees of detail and surface texture). This is then used to make molds for resin or bronze castings.
(Visit ZCorp.com for details on the equipment and process)

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Advantages to "sculpting" on the computer

Above are the first two experimental figurines (3D prints) that were made from a 3D file. The large one is 4 inches high, and the small one is 2 inches high.

The "original" model:
When a carving is made in wood or a model is made in "Sculpey" or some other such material you have only one-of-a-kind item. If that item is broken or lost, you start over. This method, like other computer files, allows for multiple copies of the computer file as well as storage in safe areas. If your casting is damaged, you only need to re-send the computer file rather than be concerned about repairing or remaking the original.

Speed:
•The computer model usually starts by working on just one half of a symmetrical object - what is done to the working half is cloned into the other part. When the symmetircal work is done you remove the clone option and continue modifying parts that are unique to that half only.
• Duplicating parts like teeth, eyes, making copies of sets (rows of teeth) are all simply a matter of a mouse click, as are attaching one object to another and aligning one part with another.

Cost:
•The computer programs are inexpensive, considerably less than materials for sculpting and carving, and is a one-time expense. The casting of the 3D print is relatively inexpensive, depending on the process and materials used.

More information:
•Do a Google search for stereolithography, 3D print, 3D prototyping. Xpress 3D.com is a collective of service bureaus that will provide on-line quotes from your digital files. They also have an on-line method of analyzing your file to see if it is ready for the 3D print process.
•I wrote an article for "3D Xtract," an on-line magazine, detailing the process of creating a 3D file for making a 3D print.