Brad Tallis
Create and modify a 3D model in Fusion using revolve, fillet, extrude, hole, and circular pattern—plus tips for saving and organizing your design.
Elevate your design and manufacturing processes with Autodesk Fusion
Brad from CAD Ed here again. Welcome back to the next installment of the Getting Started in Fusion series, where I walk you through creating a fishing reel from start to finish! Here we’ll dive into creating and modifying a 3D model in Fusion. If you’ve been following along, you know we just finished building a fully constrained sketch. Now, it’s time to bring that sketch to life by turning it into a solid 3D model in Fusion and refining it with some powerful tools.
Start with revolve
The foundation of a 3D model in Fusion begins with turning a sketch into a solid. From the Create menu, select Revolve. Fusion automatically spins your closed profile around the centerline axis, creating a smooth, symmetrical part. Accept the default settings by clicking OK, and you’ll have a spun-type component ready for further refinement. Revolve is ideal for cylindrical or rounded parts, and it’s one of the most efficient ways to create rotational geometry.
Smooth edges with fillets
Sharp edges can make a design look unfinished and can even cause functional issues. To soften them, use the Fillet command from the Modify menu. Select the six edges you want to round over and enter 1mm in the dialog box. Press OK, and your part instantly looks more polished.
For even faster access, try the Marking Menu. Pre-select the edges you want, right-click, and choose Fillet directly from the context-sensitive menu. This shortcut eliminates extra clicks and keeps your workflow smooth.
Harness the power of the marking menu
The Marking Menu is a game-changer for speed and efficiency when creating a 3D model in Fusion. It adapts based on what you’ve selected—edges, faces, or features—so you always see relevant commands. For example, pre-select a face and right-click to bring up options like Create Sketch without navigating through multiple menus. This feature is perfect for streamlining repetitive tasks and maintaining focus on your design.
Add a slot and extrude
Next, let’s add a functional detail: a slot. Start by creating a sketch on the bottom face of the circular recess. From the Create menu, choose Slot → Center Point Slot. Click the origin point, drag to define a random length, then drag upward for the radius. Once placed, use the Dimension tool (or press D) to set precise values. When the lines turn black, your sketch is fully constrained.
To cut the slot through the part, select the profile, right-click, and choose Extrude. Drag the arrow downward to cut, and in the dialog box, change Extent Type to All. This ensures the cut goes completely through—even if the part’s height changes later.
Add decorative holes
To enhance the design, add a hole using the Hole command from the Create menu. Position it near the center of the bottom cylindrical face, set the diameter to 3mm, and adjust the depth using the To option so it reaches the inner surface. Confirm with OK.
Want more holes? Use Circular Pattern to duplicate the feature. In the dialog, set Object Type to Features, select the hole from the timeline, and choose the cylindrical face as the axis. Increase the quantity to 12 for a balanced, professional look.
Save and organize your work
Finally, save your design. Click the Save icon, create a new project and name your file. Projects act like file cabinets, keeping related designs organized and easy to access. This step ensures your work is structured and ready for future edits.
Commands like Revolve, Fillet, Extrude, Hole, and Pattern are the foundation of creating a 3D model in Fusion. Mastering them not only speeds up your workflow but also gives you the flexibility to create complex, professional-grade designs. By understanding how to combine these tools effectively, you’ll be able to tackle more advanced projects with confidence.
Ready to take your designs further? Experiment with variations—change dimensions, add new features, or explore different patterns. The more you practice, the more intuitive these tools become, and the faster your ideas will move from concept to reality.
Next up – editing the timeline in Fusion.