About this class

This course is a hands-on, explorative studio designed for children (ages 11–15) who want to
bridge the gap between digital imagination and physical reality. In this intensive course, we
introduce basic 3D modeling and printing that can act as a catalyst for explorative making.
Rather than focusing solely on the machine, students will treat the 3D printer as one of many
tools in a larger creative workflow. Through a series of open-ended projects, participants will
experiment with transforming virtual shapes into tangible objects using a variety of materials and methods.

Course Goals

• Bridge the Digital-Physical Divide: Demonstrate how virtual designs can be transformed into tactile, multi-material objects.
• Foster Creative Problem-Solving: Encourage students to use 3D modeling as a way to create custom solutions, tools, and artistic components rather than just downloading pre-made files.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn the fundamentals of 3D modeling using intuitive, browser-based tools to bring original concepts to life.
• Discover how digital “masters” can be used to create physical molds, allowing for exploration in diverse materials.
• Experiment with combining 3D-printed elements with tactile media like clay, resins, or casting minerals.
• Embrace a trial-and-error mindset, refining designs through physical testing and material exploration.

Course Outcomes

• Independently create and manipulate 3D shapes within a digital workplane.
• Successfully convert a digital concept into a physical 3D print using slicing software.
• Execute at least one method of physical replication (e.g., a silicone mold, a clay impression, or a resin cast) using a 3D-printed part.
• Document the evolution of a project from a digital sketch to a finished, multi-material object.

Class Outline

Day 1 “Digital Origins“

• Intro to 3D Modeling – Navigate the workspace and master “solid
  vs. hole” logic.
• Participants design their first Master Pattern (a coin,
  medallion, or high-relief logo).

Day 2 “The Print”

• Intro to 3D Printing – Learn slicing (Cura/PrusaSlicer) and printer
  operation.
• Participants start their Master Pattern prints and learn to
  troubleshoot the first layer.

Day 3 “Replication & Revision”

• Casting Intro & Design 2: While Day 2 prints are used to create
  molds (silicone putty), participants return to the software to design a
  complex, multi-part “Final Artifact.”

Day 4 “Material Discovery”

• Making & Exploration: A “Deep Dive” into materials.
• Participant cast into their molds using resins/plaster and experiment with pigments, translucency, and “failed” print hacking.

Day 5 “The Final Assembly”

• Refining & Finishing: Sanding, polishing, and chemically bonding
  parts.
• The course concludes with a display of the finished artifacts.

Materials needed

All materials will be provided by VCUarts Qatar unless otherwise stated. Please wait until you receive the confirmation email indicating that the class will proceed before purchasing any materials.

Schedule

Start: Sun, 2 Aug, 2026
End: Wed, 6 Aug, 2026
Lessons: 5
Days: Sunday – Thursday
Time: 10am -1pm
Location: VCUQatar Campus
Cost: QAR 1000

Instructors

Destarte Prieto

Destarte Prieto is a multidisciplinary designer with expertise spanning graphic design, product design, video, and research. With a strong passion for experimentation and exploring new creative techniques, Destarte thrives on pushing the boundaries of design. Holding an advanced degree in design, her thesis centered on sustainable material innovation, reimagining waste materials into meaningful applications.

Currently, Destarte contributes to the academic community as a teaching assistant, supporting students in their creative growth and exploration. Her work emphasizes the intersection of design, fabrication techniques, and research, aiming to inspire others to see the untapped potential in the world around them.