April 04, 2023
Currently, thousands of 3D models, both paid and free, can be downloaded from various websites. Even supply companies offer huge archives in 2D/3D formats through email subscriptions or memberships. While this is a great advantage for designers, it can be harmful for those who are new to 3D modeling.
When I first started my profession, I spent all day modeling objects, such as chairs, desks, pens, lamps, etc. Although they were not exact replicas, I was able to create rough shapes and I enjoyed doing it. I even continued to exercise my brain by modeling objects in my mind when I was on the bus going home. Later on, I discovered Sketchup's free 3D model library, "3D Warehouse", and began using it. Although there weren't as many models back then, I was still able to find many of the models I needed, and the best part was that they were in Skp format. However, I wasn't aware that using ready-made objects could lead to the end of my modeling journey.
BRAIN LAZINESS
One day, I couldn't find the model I was looking for and decided to create it myself. However, I couldn't seem to do it. My mind had become lazy from using ready-made objects, and I couldn't find a way to model the object. Eventually, I realized my mistake and refocused my attention on modeling. I said goodbye to 3D Warehouse for a while.
Not only with Sketchup, but also with other 3D software, I started following technical techniques and created my own methods. By working hard, I was able to achieve good results in about 6 months. When I looked back at my past work, I noticed that I had added incorrectly modeled (reverse face, group, component) objects to my scenes. Anyone could add models to 3D Warehouse, and you could only tell if they were modeled correctly or not after a certain point.
If we had spent the time we used to search for models on thinking about how to model them, I am sure we could have created the model in less time.
WHEN SHOULD YOU USE THEM
If you are a beginner and want to create beautiful work in the 3D world, your modeling skills must be strong. When your modeling skills are strong, the materials on the model will look good. When the materials look good, the rendering will look good. As you model, or rather, as you get deeper into the job, you become more sensitive to incorrect 3D objects. If the downloaded objects are incorrect, you can fix them. After this point, you can use your ready-made objects to save time.