Case Study

3D Scanning Clay Figurines
For the British Ceramics Biennial

The 3D Scanning Brief

We were approached by artist Peter Jones on behalf of the British Ceramics Biennial, to 3D scan five figurines sculpted by school-children as part of the "Cast of Thousands" project.
The sculptures were selected from thousands and were to be duplicated in clay from moulds yet to be created.
Our job was to 3D Scan, clean up the scans, then 3D print small versions ready to be moulded in plaster.
www.chinchilla3d.com British Ceramics Biennial
image courtesy of Jenny Harper

3D Scanning the Figurines

Scanned at our London base, each clay figurine scanned really cleanly.
The tiny details were captured creating a high resolution surface quality. This was a key requirement as the integrity of the childrens' sculptures, including imperfections and hand-made qualities were an imperative part of the creative brief.

Cleanup & Design

After 3D scanning each sculpture was post-processed using VX-Model - Stray points, vertexes, and any holes were all cleaned up and the 3D file exported to Pixologic's ZBrush so it could go into the design phase.

In the design phase we were looking to smooth and simplify the models so they would work as a slip-mould, enabling the creation of hundreds of casts. This meant reducing any large undercuts and any details that would be too fragile after slip-casting. The L-shaped base and back was removed and a clay-like disc was designed for the sculptures to sit on. This would enable the slip-casting to work more effectively.

3D Scan Accuracy

Our Creaform Go!Scan 20 has point accuracy and resolution up to 0.1mm. Once the 3D scan is cleaned and decimated there really is no better way of capturing complex surfaces and geometry. The figurines were decimated to 150k polygons ready for 3D printing.

The Final 3D Scans

Such a great project to be part of. It is fantastic to see children getting their hands dirty, connecting with the clay material and making their own legacy for future generations. Find out more about the biennial here.
We were chuffed to be able to offer a super-simple service: From 3D scan to 3D Print. There is no better way of capturing complex shapes accurately.

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