Module 1.
How To Draw A Croissant
Brief
In this module, we were assigned to make an orthographic projection of a croissant. We learnt how to set up a photo stage, cropping and editing via photoshop, hatching a sketch and design conventions. Finally, we attempted to sketch an axonometric projection based on the profiles of plan and sections.
Photo stage setup
The module commences by setting up a photo stage at home, through the placement of light source and whiteboards in the background. The process eliminates distraction from and concentrates the focus on the projected contents.
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In the photoshop stage, the photos are later cropped, adjusted and arranged to present a clear, rational layout. By modulating the projections to scale and aligning the isolated views with convention, plan, elevations and sections are interrelated to create a comprehensive representation of the croissant.
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The orthographic projection was hand-drawn using rendering and hatching techniques to indicate depth and contrast. After that, photoshop was involved to intensify lightings and shadings. Conventions were also aligned which relates the individual drawings into a clear layout of the two-dimensional characteristics of the croissant.
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The module finalizes with a practice of axonometric projection. After the plan outline was sketched, it was rotated by forty-five degrees, and combined with section cuts at the corresponding positions. The axonometric projection was then outlined and rendered upon the section and plan outlines, engaging its horizontal and vertical scalar features.
Reflection
In the first module of our learning as design students, we attempted to analyse a product in a professional and technical way, rather than viewing the croissant as a simple food item. Through the process of photo stage setting, sketching and photoshop editing, we had the first glimpse into the basic skills of orthographic representation. By projecting the croissant in orthographic manners, we have learnt to represent the two-dimensional details across a product, while keeping the measurement and scalar properties aligned. Skills of hatching and rendering further improve the representation by adding shade and verticality to the planar presentation.