Exploring the World of 3D Modeling with Kirsten McKenzie from KE Kreations

At MakerEverything, we’re passionate about all things 3D printing, creativity, and the vibrant maker community. That’s why we were thrilled to sit down with Kirsten McKenzie from KE Kreations on our latest episode of Maker Everything. Kirsten has become a significant presence in the 3D modeling world, known for her stunning Flexi dragons and innovative designs. 

From 2D Art to 3D Modeling

Kirsten’s journey into 3D modeling began with her background in 2D illustration, which she had pursued for over a decade. Despite a temporary setback due to a wrist injury, Kirsten found her way back to art through a new medium—3D printing. Her husband, an engineer with a decade of experience in 3D printing, played a pivotal role in introducing her to the technical aspects of the craft. Kirsten shared how she transitioned from 2D to 3D, explaining, “I’ve always loved fantasy creatures and animals. So, when my husband printed a dragon for me, I thought, ‘I want to make my own.’”

The Birth of Flexi Dragons

One of Kirsten’s most popular creations is her unique Flexi dragons, which stand out in the 3D printing community. Unlike traditional dragon designs, Kirsten’s dragons feature a more mammalian anatomy, which she feels better represents her vision of these mythical creatures. “I didn’t see dragons out there that matched how I envisioned them—more like mammals than serpents,” Kirsten explained. This creative spark led to the creation of her first Flexi dragon, which took months of dedication to perfect.

Mastering the Tools: Fusion 360 and Nomad Sculpt

Kirsten’s creative process involves a blend of technical software like Fusion 360 and the more intuitive Nomad Sculpt. While Fusion 360 offers precision for mechanical designs, Nomad Sculpt allows Kirsten to unleash her artistic creativity, sculpting detailed textures and organic shapes. “I found Nomad much more intuitive for my artistic brain,” she said, crediting the tool for making her designs accessible to a broader audience.

For those new to 3D modeling, Kirsten recommends starting with Nomad Sculpt due to its user-friendly interface. She advises, “Before diving into tutorials, just play with the tools—experiment with different brushes and see how the clay moves.” This hands-on approach, combined with a clear vision of what you want to create, is key to mastering digital sculpting.

Evolving Designs and the Role of 3D Printing Technology

As Kirsten’s skills have evolved, so too have her designs. She has expanded beyond simple Flexi joints to incorporate more complex hinge and ball-and-socket joints, offering greater flexibility and realism in her models. This evolution reflects the growing capabilities of 3D printing technology, particularly with the advent of multi-material printing. Kirsten now creates multi-color models, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of her designs and catering to the preferences of her audience.

“Multicolor printing was initially something I hesitated to try, but once I did, I realized how much it added to my designs,” Kirsten said. Her workflow now seamlessly integrates Bamboo Studio for painting and fine-tuning, a process that she has fine-tuned to maintain the artistic integrity of her models while embracing the technical demands of 3D printing.

Building a Community and Business

Kirsten’s journey also includes the successful establishment of her Patreon, where she shares her designs with a growing community of supporters. She started with just five models, gradually expanding her library as her skills and confidence grew. Now, with over 150 models available, her Patreon has become a go-to resource for hobbyists and professionals alike. Kirsten offers a variety of membership tiers, allowing patrons to access files based on their specific interests, whether it’s Flexis, décor, or both.

For those looking to break into the world of 3D modeling, Kirsten emphasizes the importance of community and continuous learning. “Don’t get overwhelmed—start with something you’re passionate about and build from there,” she advises. Her own experience is a testament to the power of combining passion with persistence.

Where to Find Kirsten McKenzie