In this episode of our FreeCAD tutorial series, we dive into advanced modeling techniques to elevate your 3D design and CAD skills. We'll explore how to use FreeCAD's powerful Revolve, Pipe, and Loft tools to create complex and organic shapes that go beyond basic geometric forms. This tutorial is perfect for users looking to enhance their CAD modeling proficiency and tackle more intricate projects. This is the sixth video in our 10-part Introduction to FreeCAD series. You can find the FreeCAD files used in this tutorial in this GitHub repository: The written version of this guide can be found here: We begin by introducing the Revolve tool, which allows you to generate symmetrical 3D objects by revolving a 2D sketch around an axis. This is particularly useful for designing components like wheels, knobs, and other circular parts. Next, we delve into the Pipe tool, demonstrating how to sweep a 2D profile along a specified path to create tubular structures and rounded surfaces. This feature is essential for designing objects with complex curves and is instrumental in our main project—a custom keycap for a mechanical keyboard. The Pipe tool enables us to form the keycap's base with precise control over its dimensions and curvature, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. The highlight of this tutorial is the Loft tool, which we use to design the top of the keycap with an organic, ergonomic shape. By creating multiple cross-sectional sketches at different heights and lofting between them, we achieve a smooth and visually appealing form that would be challenging to model with basic extrusions. The Loft tool opens up endless possibilities for creating customized parts with unique profiles, significantly expanding your 3D modeling capabilities. Throughout the video, we also cover how to incorporate internal structures like ribs for added strength and how to adjust sketches parametrically for precise control. By the end of this tutorial, you'll have a fully functional custom keycap ready for 3D printing, and you'll have gained valuable experience with FreeCAD's advanced features. Whether you're a hobbyist looking to personalize your mechanical keyboard or a professional seeking to expand your CAD modeling skills, this tutorial offers in-depth guidance on using FreeCAD's Revolve, Pipe, and Loft tools. Join us to unlock new potential in your 3D designs and take your modeling proficiency to the next level. 00:00 Intro 1:00 Revolve Tool 5:51 Keycap Measurements 6:24 Keycap Cross Section Sketch 9:55 Pipe Path Skecth 11:12 Additive Pipe (Sweep) 12:54 Fill Top of Keycap 13:38 Create Keycap Stem 18:52 Subtractive Pipe (Groove) Demonstration 21:24 Create Keycap Internal Ribs 24:35 Custom Pattern With the Loft Tool 32:31 Export for 3D Printing 34:10 Challenge: Custom Keycap or Knob 34:29 Conclusion LulzBot SideKick 747 3D Printer: 3D printer filament: - DigiKey’s Blog – TheCircuit Connect with DigiKey on Facebook And follow us on X: