UAL Extended Diploma in 3D Design (Interiors, Architecture and Productions) Lecturer Jack Pratt is now a published author, his debut book Model Making: Technical Skills Using Every Day Objects was published last summer in 2022.

What is the book about? “The book instructs readers on the use of found objects and materials in model making. This includes using materials commonly found at home including kitchen spices, toilet roll, tin foil, cardboard and sponge to create a wide variety of textures and finishes.”

Model making can be an expensive endeavour, requiring investment in many tools, paints and materials. However, there are many model making techniques that can help to solve these problems and align the model maker with an ever-more sustainably focused world, this book aims to demonstrate how everyday materials can be used to create the most amazing miniature effects while being more mindful of the environment and saving money.

Born out of Lockdown when teaching at Wimbledon College of Arts, Jack developed skills and techniques for everyday objects to help students complete their projects online; “many of the students required miniature models and props for their projects, and when the colleges and stores closed they thought they had no way of making anything. Many of my online sessions quickly became how to use whatever the students had around them in a creative manner, and I very quickly realised that none of them had ever considered such approaches. The book is designed to pass that knowledge on to a wider audience.”

Sustainable practices make up part of the of the book which aims to disprove sustainable approaches effect on things like realistic finishing touches. Speaking of sustainability Jack commented “Sustainable practice in model-making takes many forms, not just using sustainable materials. Makers can give more than one use to an item they already own, they can use biodegradable materials, ensure the model lasts (not a disposable concept) and so on. A lot of the techniques in the book are uncommon as it is believed realistic finishes cannot be achieved – hence the second section of the book which aims to disprove this.”

The book is perfect for any 3D maker looking to “adopt more sustainable methods, learn about the fundamentals of model making, reduce the expense of model making and to progress onto more advanced techniques including finishes involving airbrushing.”

Model Making: Technical Skills Using Every Day Objects. is available to purchase at The Crowood Press, WHSmith, Amazon and more.

If you are interested in learning more about props and model making at college level our UAL Extended Diploma in 3d Design (Interiors, Architecture & Productions)  is the perfect course for you. Find out more today.