How to convert 2D images into printable 3D models. Tutorial

  

   At first we need to turn our image into vector. My personal choice is adobe illustrator but if you search on google "png to vector" you may find alternative programs. So lets start at first we will open Illustrator and open the image. You can simply drag image into illustrator
 

 

 
 Now we will use some tools in illustrator. First select the image and then click on the button right next to "Image Trace". Now choose  whichever fits better to your image but i recommend you to choose "16 color". But you can always try the best option for your image. 

     After that click on "expand" button. This will turn our image into vector.
 

      Vector will be given as a group to us but we need to ungroup our vector. Right click on selected vector then click on "UNGROUP" button. We can choose the pieces we would use and delete rest of it by clicking "DELETE" button. For example i deleted white backround in my vector.
 

     Now we will save our work by clicking"Save as" button or you may use hotkey for that which is ctrl+shift+s give it a name and save it after that you will face with illustration option menu. This part is important.
 

     Before save it we should choose  illustrator version 3 from option menu. 3D modelling programs such as 3D MAX and MAYA can not open too complex vector files. We click just "OK" button and finish this part.
 

     Things will get easier in 3d max for us. We will import our vector and  choose our mesh to extrude it. So open 3d max click on "import" button and then choose your vector file.
 

      Click "OK" to all the warnings you see. I will explain what this is about later on. It is simply how your vector will be import in to your 3d max scene. But its not important for now.
 

  From 3D Max menu open modifier and click on "Extrude" modifier. Finally its done.
 

     You may make changes on amount section and now your 3d model is ready to be export. You may import it to any platform you like.

 

     From this  you can download logo, vector and model. If you have any question feel free to ask i would be happy to help you. I hope this was helpful for you guys :) 

@originalworks