modeling crumpled window screen

[Nicholas Kargel]

I want to model an aluminum window screen that's been crumpled and un-crumpled. I need it to have the organic 3D wrinkles so I can light it from above and below. Any suggestions as I wade into this?

Here's a photo of a real-world implementation.

[PVA - Admin]

Objects like that are very difficult to create in Vectorworks currently. I would recommend looking for a similar object to import and work from instead, if possible.

Maybe 3D Warehouse would have something useful to start with:

http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/search?q=curtain&styp=m&scoring=t&btnG=Search&reps=1

[grant_PD]

You can do this with a texture, displacement mapping. I would avoid real world modeling that.

[PVA - Admin]

Agreed. Good point on the displacement mapping, it will be slower to render than otherwise, but if you need that look for final presentation it would be a superior choice:

http://www.vectorworks.net/training/getting-started-guides/renderworks/Gsg-2014-r10-displacement-mapping.php

You can find a lot of free textures and their associated displacement mapping images here as well:

http://resources.maxwellrender.com/visual_catalog.php?t=#page=1

Edited November 20, 2013 by JimW

[grant_PD]

Worth noting, displacement is only really warranted when viewing the sides of the object. If it's just viewed from the front, bump mapping may be all you really need.

[Benson Shaw]

Here's a way to create a wobbly surface, and a start on texture and lighting.

-B

Edited November 20, 2013 by Benson Shaw

[Nicholas Kargel]

Everyone, thanks for the great advice, and Benson, thanks for the detailed tutorial. I'm going to try these ideas and will report back.