4OF4 3D CHALLENGE
A challenge I created to help myself learn 3D art by creating a different model based on a sub-category of a Theme every week for 4 months.
DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
Challenge Structure Development
I designed the 4OF4 challenge structure to systematically improve my 3D skills by focusing on one theme for four weeks, with each week exploring a different aspect of that theme. This methodical approach helped me develop depth in specific areas rather than scattered knowledge.
Week 1 – SIG Sauer M18 Pistol
To kick off the challenge, I modeled the SIG M18, a compact military pistol. I focused on accurate proportions, edge flow, and hard surface detailing. This week helped me grasp foundational weapon modeling techniques and build confidence with small-scale, high-detail props.
Week 2 – M400 Assault Rifle
Building on week one, I tackled the M400 assault rifle. This involved more complex geometry, including barrel attachments, rails, and sight systems. I also experimented with material breakup and light wear texturing to give it a battle-ready look.
Week 3 & 4 – Explosives and Melee Weapons
These two weeks focused on close-combat and tactical gear. I modeled a range of equipment including frag grenades, stun grenades, and C4 for the explosive category, and M9 bayonet, tomahawk, and karambit for melee. This pushed my ability to create believable variations in form, texture, and material types like plastic, rubber, and steel.
Week 5 – WLA Harley-Davidson Motorcycle
Shifting focus to military vehicles, I started with a WLA Harley-Davidson used in WWII. This was a deep dive into retro mechanical design. I practiced intricate part modeling—like suspension, cables, and engine blocks—while balancing stylization and realism.
Week 6 – UTV Tactical Vehicle
For week six, I created a modern Utility Task Vehicle (UTV) commonly used in recon missions. It helped me understand functional design, modularity, and how to build assets with gameplay or cinematic scenes in mind. I added gear mounts and texture detailing like mud splashes for realism.
Week 7 – AH-64D Apache Longbow Helicopter
This was the most technically demanding piece. The Apache helicopter has many interlocking components like rotors, missiles, and targeting systems. I broke it down into manageable sections, which improved my workflow for large-scale hard surface models. I also leaned into clean UVs for crisp texturing.
Week 8 – M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank
To wrap up the theme, I created the M1A1 Abrams tank—an icon of modern military engineering. I focused on silhouette, scale, and layered materials to convey weight and realism. This final piece brought together everything I learned in the challenge: hard surface modeling, texturing, and presentation.
Documentation and Learning
Throughout the challenge, I documented my process and learning outcomes, creating a valuable reference vlogs for future projects.