By the end of this course, students will:
- Understand the Rhino 3D interface and key modeling tools
- Learn to navigate and create 2D and 3D geometry in Rhino
- Model a base plate and insole board using a digital last
- Design custom heel and wedge components suitable for 3D printing
- Understand key considerations for digital design in footwear
- Gain insight into real-world prototyping, printing, and attachment methods
- Leave with a fully modeled heel design and the skills to iterate further
Schedule at a Glance
- Session 1: Introduction to Rhino
- Rhino interface walkthrough
- Setting up units and presets for footwear
- Drawing curves, lines, and 2D shapes
- Intro to solid modeling: extrude, revolve, loft, Boolean operations
- Q&A and basic practice exercises
- Session 2: Base Plate Design
- Using a 3D last as your base
- Modeling a base plate and mock insole board
- Step-by-step modeling of a simple heel
- Comparing multiple methods (revolve, loft, sweep)
- Live demo + student build time
- Session 3: Basic Heel Design
- Intro to more advanced Rhino tools
- Building off your base plate for modularity and customization
- Tips for modeling symmetry and refining surfaces
- Optional homework: finish one sculpted heel for review
- Session 4: Complex Heel & Wedge Forms + Design for 3D Printing & Final Critique
- Designing sculptural wedges or unique heel shapes
- Considerations for 3D printing: file types, tolerances, material behavior
- Finishing techniques: sanding, painting, plating, reinforcing
- Strategies for attaching heel to uppers/outsoles
- Workshop time: students share screens and refine their designs
- Final tips, resources, and how to keep practicing beyond class
- Materials & Tools Required
- Computer with Rhino 7 or 8 installed (trial version is fine)
- 3-button mouse highly recommended (vs. trackpad)
- Internet connection + Zoom account
- Instructor will provide access to:
- Shared 3D last model (7cm heel height, almond toe)
- Reference images and example files
