DiSTT Module 3 at Nova Gradiška Grammar School: from an idea to the first 3D model

On 19 March 2026, at Nova Gradiška Grammar School, we held the first session of Module 3 – “Digital bodies – 3D bodies”, part of the DiSTT – Digital Skills Transformation Toolkit for a Resilient Labour Market project.

During the workshop, participants got to know the basics of 3D modelling and 3D technologies, the difference between 2D and 3D representation, the main groups of 3D processes, and the logic of additive technologies and 3D printing. Particular emphasis was placed on understanding how an idea is gradually turned into a first physical and digital 3D model, through working in Onshape and prototyping with a 3D pen.

The workshop also covered topics such as:

– the difference between a 3D pen and 3D printing

– the basics of digital modelling

– preparing a model for printing through slicing

– the basic 3D printing process

– the importance of post-processing a 3D-printed object.

As independent work between sessions, participants will keep developing the ideas they started back in Module 1. Using the 3D pens left at their disposal in the school, they will build spatial prototypes of their products, and will later transfer those models into Onshape and prepare them for further refinement and printing. In addition, they will finish the task of making a 3D keyring as an introduction to more independent work in a CAD environment, along with a further project assignment.

We are looking forward to continuing the work, to the new models and to the next session, in which the participants ideas will move into a new phase of development.