hey i have a quick question how do you guys ( or Gals) make the pepakura files that are out there .... i have always wondered how to do that for other projects...
Nice username hehe
Anyway, this is the most basic of basic explanation.
First, we need a 3D model. We use programs like Blender, AutoCAD, and my favorite Google Sketchup to construct a shape (based on video game samples in our case. This process I might add can be used for anything imaginable. I'm working on a concept rifle for example, and might do some car parts later.)
Then, export the model into a Pepakura Designer 3 read-able file, and load it in.
Afterwards the magic "unfold" button is pressed, converting the 3D file into a 2D complex. It's a pretty simple process, the program lays out the 3D surfaces out onto one surface.
Finally, since the program only knows how to separate those pieces, we need to figure out how to make those 2D bitmaps useful, by joining and un-joining the series of parts on the 2D plane with a grid designed to be printed onto paper... quite like a puzzle.
I would add pictures on here, but this is slightly off-topic and I don't want to take up thread space.
I'll leave you with this:
Would you like to master papercraft designing? I can mentor you through the whole thing. We could all use any new skill sets.
(also, there are many many tutorial threads out on this forum. Confusing, but still usable. Others would've told you to go over there but like I said, it's a forest over there)