In this weeks tutorials we have learnt a few more commands and functions that can be used in the program 3Ds Max.

I have learnt how to use shapes that are called splines to create objects. Splines are 2D shapes such as lines and other 2D shapes that can then be made into 3D. To make these shapes into 3D I had to first convert the spline shape to an 'editable poly' by right clicking, then scrolling down to 'convert' and finally 'convert to editable poly'. This will allow me to modify the shape. I then had to choose the 'poly' tab on the right hand menu bar named 'Modify' and then click on the extrude tool. This will allow me to extrude the flat object out so that it looks 3D. The problem with this method is that one end of the object open so we have to cap off the end. To do this I had to first select the end of the shape that I wanted to cap. Then I had to go to the 'Modify' tab, select 'Border' in the selection menu and then scroll down to the Cap option in the Edit Borders menu.

I have also learnt how to use the commands Boolean and Pro Boolean. These commands can be used to merge objects together and to also to cut away parts of objects. These commands can be found in the 'Compound Objects' menu in the 'Create' tab. These are very useful functions to use but they can be very memory intensive when not used sparingly. I will have to think carefully before using this tool to create my final project.

I finally learnt how to use the lathe tool. This is a very useful function that allows me to create objects such as pottery or trees. It takes spline or any other 2D shape and then spirals it from the pivot point to create a final image. To use the lathe tool I have to first create the first shape that I want to create my lathe object from. I will then have to adjust the pivot point so that it spirals from the correct position and give the look im after. To do this I had to go to the 'Hierachal' tab in the menu at the right hand of the screen and then click on 'Affect Pivot Only'. I can then click on the pivot shown on the main part of the screen and then move it to the position that I want it to be. I then click on the modifyer tab and select the modifyer 'lathe'.