ETI Workshop Series: Introduction to 3D Modeling in Blender

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 3:30 PM

Six Sessions Covering Blender Basics, Modifiers, Lighting/Cameras, Sculpting, Materials, and Rendering

This is a 6-week introductory workshop series on the basics of Blender, a 3D modeling software. Registrants are encouraged to attend all six sessions in the series for best learner outcome, although it is possible to register for only specific sessions in the series. Please select which sessions you will be attending on the registration form. Attendees will build a blood vessel project from week to week, adding to concepts and skills taught in each session. Each session runs from noon to 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

Detailed descriptions of each session’s objectives are below:

Thursday, March 19, 2026, Noon – 1:30 p.m. EDT — Session 1: Blender Basics

Learn the basic controls of Blender and create a red blood cell that will be enhanced in future sessions.

Thursday, March 26, 2026, Noon – 1:30 p.m. EDT — Session 2: Using Modifiers in Blender

Learn about some of the basic modifiers in Blender and create a blood vessel and additional red blood cells for our 3D modeling project.

Thursday, April 9, 2026, Noon – 1:30 p.m. EDT — Session 3: Lights and Cameras Functionality in Blender

Add enhancements to your blood vessel project using colors, lights and cameras to produce a final image.

Thursday, April 16, 2026, Noon – 1:30 p.m. EDT — Session 4: Sculpting in Blender

Learn how to use sculpting vs. modifiers to create surface details for our blood vessel project.

Thursday, April 23, 2026, Noon – 1:30 p.m. EDT — Session 5: Using Materials in Blender

Upgrade the look of your blood vessel project by enhancing surface textures. We will also cover very basic UV mapping.

Thursday, April 30, 2026, Noon – 1:30 p.m. EDT — Session 6: Finalizing, Rendering and Exporting Blender Models

It's your time to shine! You will create an additional cellular model of your choice to enhance your blood vessel environment (e.g., white blood cell, blockage, stent, etc.). Then finalize, render and export your final creation! We will discuss how final models can be used, including 3D printing, instructional design modules and other applications.