How to create a 3D illustration: Everything you need to know

“Would you like to know how a 3D illustration is made? A three-dimensional image has the ability to deceive our perceptions.”

It’s clear that drawing isn’t easy, and if we want to add volume, the task becomes even more complicated. In fact, being able to represent all the dimensions of an object on a flat surface can be quite a challenge. If you’re already an expert at drawing, grab your sketchbook and take note of all the steps you need to take to create your 3D illustrations. Are you up for the challenge? This type of illustration has been gaining ground and is increasingly used in advertising, web design, and more, as it’s a drawing that manages to capture everyone’s attention. Still have doubts about what a 3D illustration is? Don’t worry! We’ll explain everything simply below. First, you should know that a 2D drawing is one that doesn’t have volume; that is, it’s drawn in two dimensions: width and height. In contrast, 3D illustrations add depth. Creating this type of image requires great technical skill. 3D drawing offers greater realism, as it manages to maintain the same proportions as in reality.

What is anamorphosis?

Anamorphosis is the distortion of an image so that, when viewed from a different angle, it appears to be three-dimensional. Amazing, right? If you want to learn how to make any type of image appear in 3D, keep reading.

How to create a 3D illustration?

This time, we’ll show you step-by-step how to create a 3D illustration. The first thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need good materials: professional drawing pencils, erasers, a pencil sharpener, colored pencils, etc. If you don’t invest in the right materials, the results won’t be what you expect. In this case, we’ll need:

• Drawing pencil.
• Rulers or set squares.
• Eraser.
• A4 size paper.

Steps to create a 3D illustration:

1. First, draw a perspective grid to determine the viewing angle for the drawing.
2. Choose an image and place it on the grid, ensuring it doesn’t extend beyond the edges.
3. To allow our eyes to perceive the third dimension on a flat surface, we must first give the two-dimensional drawing some form.

Create another grid with the same number of squares as grid 1.

4. Transfer the drawing to this new grid and begin the 3D modeling process.
5. Delete the grids so only the image remains, and you’re done!

There are also other techniques for creating a 3D illustration:

• Frontal linear perspective: The drawing is based on a horizon line at eye level. All lines converge to a single vanishing point.
• Oblique perspective: In this case, there are two vanishing points.
• Aerial perspective: Here, all dimensions must be considered, and their representation is done using three vanishing points. It is primarily used to depict buildings.

You can also create your designs digitally using certain programs. Keep in mind that creating basic shapes might be easier, but if you want to design a unique and creative image, you’ll need considerable experience with traditional techniques.

How to get started if you’re a beginner?

If you’re new to creating 3D illustrations, it’s best to start with simple images. For example, you could begin with geometric shapes like cubes, spheres, pyramids, stars, etc. You can also choose to draw letters and numbers. In these cases, you don’t need to create the grids we mentioned earlier, as that’s a much more complex technique for a beginner. For example, you can draw numbers like this:

1. Write the normal number.

    

2. Start drawing the borders.

3. Give it depth.

Now that you know how to create a 3D illustration, you can get started. Remember that this type of drawing requires considerable technique and skill. If you’re a beginner, try working with simple figures first. In these cases, you don’t need to use such advanced techniques. Of course, you can create your 3D illustration with Salago. A team of top-level professionals will be at your service!