Crystal modeling

In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to model an octagon shaped crystal structure.

Create a plane of any size in the top viewport. Only parameters we need to pay attention to here are the Segs parameters, so set them both to 4 (if they’re not already set to that value).

Convert the plane to the Editable Poly object and enter its Vertex selection mode. Next, select all vertices, click on the Chamfer button in the Edit Vertices section and chamfer them till polygons start looking like octagons.

Note: Chamfer tool is a useful for quickly adding great numbers of vertices. This shape can also be achieved by just moving the vertices around, but would take considerably more time.

Delete all of the small tri and quad polygons in between large octagons.

Select couple of octagons that are not sharing any edges and bevel them.

Repeat this process until you have beveled all polygons.

Add a Noise modifier to the plane. Tick the Fractal option on and set the Strength parameters to 25. This will add some diversion to the overall shape which is a good thing, because it will make it look more realistic.

Now, let’s turn our attention to the material and because this is a simple model, the material will be simple. Open up the material editor and select a first empty slot. Set its Diffuse color to R: 22 G: 155 B: 22, Specular level to 75 and Glossiness to 25.

Scroll down to the Maps section. Tick the Refraction option and set it to 50. Also set its map to Raytrace.

End result of this tutorial should look something like this: