Fusion for 3D Printing – Project 02: Japandi Vase
- Breno Cruz
- Jan 11
- 2 min read
Sketch to 3D Print – From Fusion 360 to Real Objects
Sketch to 3D Print is a project-based series that demonstrates the complete workflow of turning digital designs into real, functional objects using Autodesk Fusion 360 and 3D printing.
Each article walks through the full design process:
Creating clean and well-structured sketches
Building parametric 3D models in Fusion 360
Applying design for 3D printing (DfAM) principles
Preparing files and manufacturing parts on an FDM 3D printer
The focus is on practical, real-world projects, showing not only how to model parts, but also how to design them for successful fabrication.
This series is ideal for makers, engineers, product designers, and beginners who want to learn how to transform ideas into physical products using a professional CAD workflow.
In this CAD tutorial we'll use the features:
1. Revolve
Definition: Creates a 3D solid by rotating a profile around an axis. How it works: You sketch a half-profile (like half a vase) and a center line. Fusion spins it 360°. Best for: Round objects like bottles, cups, or rocket fuselages.
2. Offset Plane
Definition: Creates a new sketching canvas parallel to an existing face but at a specific distance (height) away. How it works:
The Problem: You want to draw the top of a vase, but the base is on the ground.
The Solution: You create an Offset Plane 200mm above the ground. Now you can draw the top circle floating in the air. Best for: Setting up the "floors" or levels for a Loft.
3. Loft
Definition: Creates a smooth transition between two or more different sketch profiles. How it works:
Sketch 1 (Bottom): Draw a square on the ground plane.
Sketch 2 (Top): Draw a circle on your high Offset Plane.
Loft: Select the Square and then the Circle. Fusion builds a smooth, twisting shape that morphs from the square base to the round top. Best for: Boat hulls, aircraft wings, or artistic vases.
4. Shell
Definition: Hollows out a solid body. How it works: You select the top face of your solid "Loft" and set a thickness (e.g., 2mm). Best for: Turning your solid block into a functional container or vase.
5. Fillet
Definition: Rounds off sharp edges. How it works: Applies a radius to smooth the geometry. Best for: Smoothing the sharp corners of the square base before the Loft starts, making the transition even smoother.
6. Circular Pattern
Definition: Duplicates features in a circle. How it works: If you modeled a decorative handle or a texture bump on one side of your vase, use Circular Pattern to copy it 6 times around the center. Best for: Adding repetitive decoration or symmetry to the final object.
3D Sketch
Exercise 89 - 3D practice drawing for 3d print and all CAD software ( AutoCAD, SolidWorks, 3DS Max, Autodesk Inventor, Fusion 360, CATIA, Creo Parametric, SolidEdge etc.)
Tip: Subscribe to the channel for more tutorials like this.
Tutorial In Autodesk Fusion: https://youtu.be/pymT98-y2iI
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