How
2D Works?
2D software uses images called bitmaps. These consist of blocks of color
stacked together to make a picture. Each image can be “in-scale”
with the others, making them easy to size for basic design & layout.
The images can be very lifelike, but only show one view at a time, usually
a top view. The versatility of 2D allows images to be taken from anywhere.
Printed catalog items, existing items, or inventory lists can all be
captured easily. Having this starting image makes the task of modifying
it much easier. A limitation of 2D is that only 1 angle at a time can
be captured and altered, similar to a pencil sketch.
How 3D Works?
3D software uses computer-generated lines, surfaces, or solids to create
3D models of a jewelry item. With a 3D model, you can assign specific
metals, gems, and colors to make a rendering. These renderings can be
very realistic and can be generated and viewed at any angle around the
item. Modeling in 3D is very different from drawing or designing in
2D. The 3D style of drawing has a higher degree of difficulty than 2D.
Although each 3D program has ways of tackling these tasks, none of them
is a causal effort.
What
2D Can Do For You?
In the retail jewelry world, most of your time is spent trying to get
the customer to say “Yes!” to your proposed design. The
length of time required to get that “Yes!” can be greatly
reduced using 2D software. 2D clears up about 95% of the communication
problem by allowing customers with limited jewelry knowledge and experience
to actually visualize the exact design you are trying to sell them.
In looking at the newer 3D products, be wary of people trying to criticize
2D to help sell their 3D product. This is a big misunderstanding of
your needs and the strengths & weaknesses of the software. If a
big part of your day is working directly with customers, it’s
hard to beat the ease and quickness of 2D software.
What
3D Can Do For You?
3D truly represents a new era in the jewelry business. It is now possible
to design something in exact detail, accurately sized, and have it built
to exact scale. You can test ideas, try different variations, and see
every aspect of the model. Once complete, your model is ready to go
to a CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) machine to be created. The wax
will be near perfect in every detail. The most important issue in using
3D technology is your dedication to learning the program. You have to
practice and spend time to get good at it, just like any other art form.