form•Z and photoshop spECIaLIsts [email protected] form Z · The retooling of the fi eld...

V A L U E - A D D E D

form •ZS O F T W A R E S A L E S

SM

form•Z and photoshop spECIaLIsts

architectstoolbox.com 888 986 8665

form Zw o r k s h o p s

n o w C E L E B r at I n G 1 0 Y E a r s o f f o r m • Z t r a I n I n G

now CELEBratInG

10 YEars!

1 9 9 6 - 2 0 0 6

[email protected]

FORMZONe T H E F O R M • Z L E A R N I N G S Y S T E M

2

David Wolf begins teaching two day form•Z 2.6 workshop.

Celebrating 10 years of

architects toolboxsf, La, Chicago, nYC, Your Computer

1996

Photoshop and other programs added. Two form•Z days added.

form•Z 3.0 released 5-Step Interface created.

Workshops added in Los Ange-les. Apprentice program added.

Chicago and New York Work-shops added. Workbook created.

New teaching studio in San Francisco Bay Area. form•Z 4.0

First international clients. LiveInteractive Link initiated.

Learning Vacation, 9 day form•Z & PS draws from throughout US.

Development of FormZone: the form•Z Bible begins.

One-on-One training developed, beta testing begins. form•Z 5.0

Release of the FormZone Learn-ing System. form•Z 6.0

2006

Free!

$45

$95

$195

$225

$295

$395

$595

$940

$1195

1996

1997

1998

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

1. Zero-Module: Free 45m Session!Live one-on-One form•Z session, on your computer, anywhere in the world.

CELEBratInG 10 YEars of

form•Z training wIth nEw 10 waYs to LEarn!

2. Z-Keycuts and Z-Key SkillsetYour hands will dance and forms will fl y.

3. The 5-Step Interface Flatten the learning curve an essential.

4. The Formulator PackageAdds Z-Keys, One-on-One Skillsets & more.

5. “FormZone: the form•Z Bible”The essential reference, over 320 pages.

6. The Compendium PackageCombines 5 and 4 above with libraries.

7. Introductory Learning SystemDay 1 (Workshops A-C) with 6 above.

8. Foundation Workshops: Days 1-4 One-on-One Training with David Wolf.

9. Demystifi ed Workshops: Days 1-6 Plus One-on-One Training with David Wolf.

10. Formula•Z Workshops: Days 1-8Plus One-on-One Training with David Wolf.

Photoshop Workshops: Now in their 10th year! See architectstoolbox.com for complete details.

888.986.8665 Call now for a FREE lesson on your computer at your location.

The retooling of the fi eld of architecture and the allied arts is the most dramatic retooling of any profession ever. Used for business applications in the 1980s, computers brought 2D CAD in the 1990s and now a third wave of tools used for 3D design, presentation and visual studies.

This transformation of design tools requires a change of core skills, which is the focus of what we do at Architects Toolbox. I had the unique privilege of being the fi rst graduate student at UC Berkeley to use form•Z in studio. There were no courses in form•Z. The few classes covering digital design explained what buttons to press, but lacked the essential skills of intuition, approach and methodology that form the foundation of our workshops.

The quest for a better way is what drew me to the profession of architecture. This quest has also generated a hard-earned reputation for excellence in teaching the new tools of design. Month after month, our group workshops steadily evolved. By 2000, they had grown to a nine day series for both form•Z and Photoshop, offered in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago and New York; drawing clients from around the world.

The growing sophistication of these tools has meant there is more to teach with each passing year. Approaching our 10th anniversary, it became clear that group workshops of seven hours a day, four to nine days in a row might not be the most best approach to learn form•Z. Out of this desire for a better way, we began to build the new One-on-One workshops, a completely unique approach that gives far more personal attention than group workshops along with fl exibility to customize the schedule, pace and content.

After teaching with the new system for over a year, I am happy to report that the One-on One approach is far more effective than group training, not by just a little, but radically so. We’ve eliminated the “drinking from a fi re hose” quality that is an inescapable part of group training that goes for seven hours a day, four to fi ve days in a row. Instead of the one hour of direct one-on-one time you’ll receive from me in our Group Workshops of four or fi ve days (along with 6 hours of other people’s questions), our new series gives an unlimited amount of One-on-One time working directly with me, while allowing you to spread the training out over a few months if you wish, rather than trying to squeeze it into a single week. Going at YOUR paces makes a world of difference. The One-on-One approach is the fastest and easiest way to learn form•Z—guaranteed. If you don’t completely agree, we will refund you money.

To help celebrate our 10th anniversary and the release of form•Z 6.0, we are offering a FREE One-on-One training session on your computer at your location in which I will personally teach you real fundamentals and skills while acquainting you with our unique approach.

Earn AIA

Continuing

Education Credit

V A L U E - A D D E D

form •ZS O F T W A R E S A L E S

888.986.8665

The 5-Step Interface ...................... 6

FormZone: the form•Z Bible .......... 7

ZERO Module ................................. 8

The Workshops ..............................9

Day 1: Overview ..........................10

Day 2: Faces, Facets, Facts ...........11

Day 3: Precision ..........................12

Day 4: Parametrics ......................13

Day 5: Meshing ...........................14

Day 6: Rendering ........................15

Day 7: Animation ........................16

Day 8: Organics ...........................17

One-on-One vs Group ..................18

Group Workshop Option ............... 20

One-on-One Workshop Option .........21

One-on-One Sessions ...................22

One-on-One Skillsets ....................23

They’re talking about us ..............24

Training Options Summary ...........25

architectstoolbox.comform•Z and photoshop spECIaLIsts

3

c o n T e n T s

Architects Toolbox is a value-added form•Z Dealer. See our form•Z Sales brochure for complete details.

[email protected]

5stEp

MOdELIng

tOOLBAR

5stEp

WIndOW

tOOLBAR

form•Z dEmYstIfIEd workshops

5-S

TEP

888.986.8665 architectstoolbox.comform•Z and photoshop workshops

The 5-Step Interface© In 1998, Architects Toolbox introduced this essential plug-in, which absolutely fl attens the form•Z learn-ing curve by arranging and organizing the modeling tools into fi ve separate subpalettes, called Draw-Pick-Move-Edit-Derive. The 5-Step Navigation tools and other tweaks open a window into the intuition behind the logic. This unique approach can only be found at Architects Toolbox. Beginner and intermediate settings allow you to further customize to your liking. Includes installation directions and LiveInteractive support. Call for details and a free demonstration ....................................................$95

Z-Key KeyShorts© Add over 110 additional methods of keying in the most essential modeling and navigation tools. Your fi ngers will dance! Includes 1 hour One-on-One Z-Key Skillset ......$45

Formulator Package, Includes our a large laminated desktop reference, keyboard template, monitor template and a forty fi ve minute One-on-One Skillset that takes you through the essential steps along with a 5-Step Quickstart Guide. .....................$165

CALL 888.986.8665 NOW FOR A FREE DEMO OF THE 5-STEP INTERFACE

4

5stEp

MOdELIng

tOOLBAR

5stEp

WIndOW

tOOLBAR

5stEp

MOdELIng

tOOLBAR

5stEp

WIndOW

tOOLBAR

The 5-Step Interface© In 1998, Architects Toolbox introduced this essential plug-in, which absolutely fl attens the form•Z learn-ing curve by arranging and organizing the modeling tools into fi ve separate subpalettes, called Draw-Pick-Move-Edit-Derive. The 5-Step Navigation tools and other tweaks open a window into the intuition behind the logic. This unique approach can only be found at Architects Toolbox. Beginner and intermediate settings allow you to further customize to your liking. Includes installation directions and LiveInteractive support. Call for details and a free demonstration ....................................................$95

Z-Key KeyShorts© Add over 110 additional methods of keying in the most essential modeling and navigation tools. Your fi ngers will dance! Includes 1 hour One-on-One Z-Key Skillset ......$45

Formulator Package, Includes our a large laminated desktop reference, keyboard template, monitor template and a forty fi ve minute One-on-One Skillset that takes you through the essential steps along with a 5-Step Quickstart Guide. .....................$165

CALL 888.986.8665 NOW FOR A FREE DEMO OF THE 5-STEP INTERFACE

5 S T E Pi n t e r F A c e

a n d f o r m u L a t o r p a C k a G E

Architects Toolbox, the 5-Step Interface, Form•Z Bible and Skillset Segments are a trademarks of David Wolf and Architects Toolbox. All rights reserved. © 2005.

BO

OK

cHAPterSFormZone: The form•Z Bible ................................................$225Divided into 14 sections, fi ve refl ecting the 5-Step Interface, this essential book is your key to unlocking the sophistication of form•Z. Opening to 8.5x28” and color coded according to the 5-Step Interface, this essential reference has laminated external tabs and a uniquely designed framework within that utilizes iconography, detailed annotations, check-boxes and other innovative devices. Beautifully designed, your 350 page book is an essential reference both during and after the workshops.

..........................................................................$295

When enrolling in workshops 1& 2 ..............$99!!

• FormZone: the form•Z Bible

• 5-Step Interface and Monitor Template

• Z-Key Template and Guide

• A-Level Workshop described later in this guide.

The Introductory Learning System adds the A-Level to C-Level workshops to The Compendium Package described above along with FormZone the Convergence of Cyberspace and Virtual Reality, an essential guide to digital design, also by David Wolf ......................$395

the Essential guide to the Intuition behind the Logic

f o r m • Z d E m Y s t I f I E d w o r k s h o p s

Legal-size wide, the book is organized according to the 5-Step Interface. There are 14 chapters divided by external laminated tabs.

5

iNtERFACE

NAViGAtE

D R A w

P i C K

M O V E

E D i t

DERiVE

Simple Display

Case Study

Rendering

Animation

Organics

Resources

Glossary

• 8.5x28” format

• full Color Throughout

• External laminated Tabs

• internal Tabbing

• 5 Chapters matching the 5-step Toolbars

• step-by-step approach

• Checkbox system

• workshop structure

• unique iconography

• Red flags Throughout mark essential points.

BooK FeaTures

888.986.8665Call now for a FREE lesson on your computer at your location.

P A c K A G e

tHe cOMPlete

D E M Y S I T I F I E DD E M Y S I T I F I E DD E M Y S I T I F I E DF O R M • Z

CALL 888.986.8665 NOW FOR A FREE LESSON AND COMPLETE LOOK THROUGH THIS BOOK

architectstoolbox.comform•Z and photoshop workshops

�

ZER

OZEROMODULE

Like driving lessons in a car with two steering wheels.

When it comes to learning a tool as sophisti-cated as form•Z, there’s nothing like working directly one-on-one with a professional trainer, who not only knows the tools, but has a deep understanding of how to convey that informa-tion, customized to your needs. Now let’s take that a step further and have a professional trainer who can come over 15-30 minutes and teach you a few things, go away for an hour, come back for a bit more and then return whenever you give them a call.

The LiveInteractive Link: Like driving lessons in a car with two steering wheels, the LiveInteractive Link allows us to connect our computer to yours as we view and control the same computer at the same time. Make no mis-take about it, this way of working is emphati-cally better than sitting side-by-side. Sitting

side-by-side, only one person can sit in front of the computer at any given time and the exchange follows a “move over and give me the mouse” rhythm, the person not in control the mouse often tapping their finger on the monitor. With LiveInteractive, the interchange is far more el-egant. You move your mouse to somewhere near, but not exactly where you need to click, and you’ll find your instructor has nudged the cursor to the right where you need to be, which is much more graceful than sitting side by side saying, “no, more to the right, now you’ve passed it” and so forth.

No special software or hardware is needed. Any PC or Mac connected to the internet will work. The audio connection is either by regular phone connection to our toll-free number or Voice over IP* a perfect way to connect from anywhere in the world. Call today for a free demonstration.


Live InteractiveDirect One–tO–One

* Though the audio connection can be made through our toll-free phone number, you can also phone us through the Internet using a free SKYPE, VOIP: Voice over Internet Protocol means a phone connection.

d I r E C t o n E - o n - o n E w I t h d aV I d w o L f

our 10th anniversary Gift to You

Whether you plan to attend our traditional classroom based Group Workshops or our new One-on-One Workshops, we offer you this free one hour lesson working directly one-on-one with David Wolf in celebration of our 10th Anniversary.

Choose a beginning or intermediate skillset, promising you an im-portant piece of the form•Z puzzle working directly with David Wolf, author of FormZone: the form•Z Bible and creator of the 5-Step Interface. At the same time, you also get to check out the de-tails of the FormZone Learning System and the choice between the Group Workshops and new One-on-One series.

David Wolf has been teaching form•Z and Photoshop for over a decade.

o n Y o u r C o m p u t E r , a t Y o u r L o C a t I o n

Call us for a free demo copy of form•Z. You can use the demo during the workshops and it also works with our 5-Step Interface.

frEE one-on-one training session

7


WORKSHOPS“ G r o u p o r “ o n E - o n - o n E ”

tHe 250 eSSent iAl SK i l lSetS

The structure of the workshops matches the organization and structure of FormZone: The form•Z Bible, which, in turn, refl ects the Draw-Pick-Move-Edit-Derive structure of the 5-Step Interface.

The Recursive Immersion Approach: Each workshop is made up of 10 Skillset segments that match 10 chapters of the book. There are a total of 250 Essential Skillsets. The A-Level Workshop takes you through the fi rst two pages of each chapter, giving a quick preview of the topics to be covered. Each workshop makes a deeper pass through each of these same 10 chapters, returning to these same ideas and concepts. Developed through a decade of teaching form•Z, we’ve found this “Recursive Immer-sion Approach” will allow you to absorb an enormous amount of complex information in a very short amount of time. You will be amazed at how easily you retain an enormous amount of technical information. Call today for a free tour of the workshops.


1

8To

DaY 1-DaY 8

Whether you take Group Workshops or our new One-on-One Workshops, the organization of each is the same. Each module represents one day of training (~7 hours per day). Module 1 (Day 1) begins with the A-Level Work-shop. With three to four workshops per day, we continue to the Z-Level Workshop on Module 8 (Day 8). The following pages outline each day.

IntROductORyWORkshOps

Module 1 (day 1) FouNdaTIoNs oF ForM•Z A-Level to C-Level Workshops

Module 2 (day 2) Faces, FaceTs FacTs D-Level to F-Level Workshops

IntERMEdIAtEWORkshOps

Module 3 (day 3) precIsIoN G-Level to I-Level Workshops

Module 4 (day 4) paraMeTrIcs J-Level to L-Level Workshops

Module 5 (day 5) MeshING M-Level to P-Level Workshops

AdVAncEdWORkshOps

Module 6 (day 6) reNderING oVerVIeW Q-Level to T-Level Workshops

Module 7 (day 7) aNIMaTIoN U-Level to W-Level Workshops

Module 8 (day 8) orGaNIc ModelING X-Level to Z-Level Workshops

iNtERFACE

NAViGAtE

DRAw

PiCK

M O V E

E D i t

DERiVE

Simple display

Case S tudy

FORMZONE1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

iNtERFACE

NAViGAtE

DRAw

PiCK

M O V E

E D i t

DERiVE

Simple display

Case S tudy

FORMZONE11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

iNtERFACE

NAViGAtE

DRAw

PiCK

M O V E

E D i t

DERiVE

Simple display

Case S tudy

FORMZONE21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

28.

29.

30.

m o D u L e 1 ( D a Y 1 )

A - L E V E Lw O R K S h O P

B - L E V E Lw O R K S h O P

C - L E V E Lw O R K S h O P

The A-C Level Workshops typify the Recursive Immersion Approach, covering 30 of the 250 Essentail Skillsets.

Each module represents one day (~7 hours) of training, containing three to four workshops. Module 1 begins with the A-C Level, workshops and Module 8, completes the series at the Z-Level Workshop.

THe 250 essenTiaL

sKiLLseTs

ToA-LEVELZ-LEVEL

workshops covering

inclUDeS tHe


�

1

a-LeveL

OVERVIEW WORkshOp

(~45mins)

B-LeveL

IntROductORy WORkshOp

(~3 hours)

C-LeveL

FundAMEntALs WORkshOp

(~3 hours)

1. FormZone: The Goal 21. CyberspaceFORMZONE

2. Interface Overview 12. Default & 5Step 22. Learning InterfaceInterface

3. Navigate Overview 13. Views Pull Down 23. Views PaletteNavigate

4. DRAW OVERVIEW 14. Line and Object Type 24. Lines, Splines and ArcsDrAW

5. PICK OVERVIEW 15. Topological Levels 25. Delete, Topology & GeometryPicK

6. MOVE OVERVIEW 16. Topo or Self-Copy 26. Other Copy ModifiersMOVe

7. EDIT OVERVIEW 17. Booleans 27. Trim/Split: Trim LineeDit

8. DERIVE OVERVIEW 18. Simple Derivatives 28. Parallel SingleDeriVe

9. Simp Display Overview 19. Color Tool 29. Wireframe Interactive

10. 5-Step Song 20. B-Level House 60. PencilCASE Study

Simple Display

11. Virtual Reality

M O D U L E O n E ( D ay O n E )

In our first pass we begin with the A-Level: Overview Workshop, in which we will pass through the first two pages of each section of FormZone: the form•Z Bible (pages 00 and 01). The goal of the A-Level workshop is to give you simple exposure to the topics that will follow rather than specific facts and procedures. The A-Level: Overview Workshop goal is simple exposure in our recursive approach as we return to go deeper with each topic in the B-level workshop, which returns to these same ten slices. In this Introductory Workshop, each Skill Segment includes an audio follow up that guides you through the hands-on portion of the training, ending the workshop with a simple case study. Proceeding to the C-level, The Fundamentals Workshop continues this recursive theme, repeating information we’ve gone over previously while taking your knowledge to the next step.

FOUnDAtiOnS

Each Skillset corresponds with a different set of pages in “FormZone: The form•Z Bible.”

By color-coding the 5-Step Interface with the book and structure of the workshops, you will quickly gain a deeper understanding of the intuition behind the logic.

The 10 Skillsets that are covered in each workshop reflect a different tabbed chapter of the book.

�


d-LeveL

LAnguAgE WORkshOp

(~2 hours 45 min)

e-LeveL

kEy MOVEs WORkshOp

(~2 hours 45 min)

F-LeveL

AccuRAcy WORkshOp

(~2 hours 45 min)

31. Language 51. Working methodicallyFORMZONE

32. Pull-Down menus 42. Palettes 52. Save, Save-as Interface

33. Zoom, Hand, Fit, Set View 43. Planes & Perpendicular 53. Defining Ref PlanesNavigate

34. Other Draw Basics 44. Drawing Insertions 54. Numeric: Absolute/RelativeDrAW

35. Smooth, Facetted, Convert 45. Objects Palette, Ghosting 55. Layers PalettePicK

36. Rotate 46. Cloning 56. Uniform Scale ToolMOVe

37. Section (vs Trim/Split) 45. Trim/Split Objects 57. Insert Line, Point, BreakeDit

38. Parallel Double 36. Contour Tool 58. Projection ToolDeriVe

39. Doodle 49. Hidden Line 59. Surface & Shaded Render

40. The Barrel Vault 50. Simple House E 60. Simple House FCASE Study

Simple Display

41. Polarities

FAceS, FAcetS, FActS

Where our first module gives us a solid foundation in model-ing, Module 2 (Day 2) builds on this solid base, beginning to fill in the essential parts and pieces of 3D modeling, covering the language and key moves of the program as we make our way towards precision and Module 3.

The Language Workshop (D-Level) begins this transition, covering the same ten essential slices, this time focusing on translating the language of your mind to the language of the computer by teaching you the syntax behind the logic. We end this workshop by modeling the sophisticated geometry of a groin or double-barrel vault, which helps demonstrate

2

Module 2 (Day 2) completes the introductory overview that was begun in Module 1 (Day 1). The six workshops contained within give you a solid foundation from which to understand the program.

the depth and sophistication possible after four workshops. At the E-Level, we enter the Key Moves Workshop, focusing on the nuts and bolts of 3D modeling, from the introduc-tion of reference planes to palettes, insertions to cloning. It is at this point that we’ve entered the heart and core of 3D modeling.

The Accuracy Workshop (F-Level) begins another transi-tion to the realm of precision and numeric entry. Other topics include essential line editing, scaling and projection tools that accompany our deepening knowledge of the key moves in form•Z.

M O D U L E T W O ( D a y T W O )


1010

3 MODULE THREE (Day THREE)

Now we get down to brass tacks and the extraordinary precision that form•Z allows. In Module 3 (Day 3), we enter the steepest part of the learning curve as well. It is not so much that the topics are difficult. It’s really that these issues are less interesting than the pure geometry that we focus on in Module 1 and 2. And yet, they are absolutely essential.

In the Precision Workshop (G-Level), we focus on the most es-sential parts and pieces of this realm of accuracy, beginning with the core principals of working methodically in Skillset 61 and following through with the major tools for ensuring extraordinary accuracy and precision. This workshop ends with the Door Case Study (Skill Segment 70), which brings all of the essential moves together into an example of precision and accuracy.

Prec iS iOn

Whether you take the Group Workshops or One-on-One Workshops, each follows the structure shown on these pages while following along in “FormZone: the form•Z Bible.”

G-LeveL

pREcIsIOn WORkshOp

(~2.5 hours)

H-LeveL

pREcIsERWORkshOp

(~2.5 hours)

I-LeveL

pARAMEtRIcs IntROductIOn

(~2.5 hours)

61. Working MethodicallyFORMZONE

62. Importing Files 72. Exporting 81. Window FramesInterface

63. Plane Tools 73. Plane Projection 82. Edit Cone of Vision Navigate

64. Numeric: World/Local 74. Numeric: Polar 83. Analytic PrimitivesDrAW

65. Measuring 75. Query & Misc Measuring 84. Edit Controls (& Query: Edit) PicK

66. Independent Scales 76. Mirror 85. Move Tools RecapMOVe

67. Close and Trim Lines 77. Join Lines/Connect 86. Deform 1 & 2eDit

68. Unfold 78. Derivative 2D Surfaces 88. RevolveDeriVe

69. Sketch Render 79. Image Options 89. Helix

70. Door 80. Roofs: Hip Roofs 90. Revolving ExamplesCASE Study

Simple Display

71. Loose to Methodical

The Preciser Workshop (H-Level) continues these themes, focus-ing on the essential details of dialing in and checking the locations of points, segments, faces and objects. We end this workshop with a case study on hip roofs, an excellent complement to the topics covered previously.

In the Parametrics Introduction Workshop of Module 3 (Day 3) we begin the transition to the topics covered in the next module while continuing the general theme of precision and accuracy. As paramet-ric geometry carries the original mathematical parameters that were used to initially model your geometry, your ability to later change the parameters—either graphically with the mouse or numerically with the keyboard—is key to designing in form•Z. This workshop completes the themes of accuracy and precision.

11


As previously mentioned, parametric geometry retains the original mathematical parameters used to create your shapes and forms. Module 4 (Day 4) gives you a larger framework from which to understand these recurrent themes.

For example, a simple 2D circle retains the original equation used to create it (πr2). If you wanted a circle with twice the radius, the equation would become 2πr2. The beauty of form•Z is that you don’t need to know anything about the math behind the geometry. In fact, the equation πr2 is never part of your con-sciousness as you transform your circle. Either graphically (by clicking and dragging), or numerically (by changing the radius

4

By color-coding the 5-Step Interface with the book and structure of the workshops, you will quickly gain a deeper understanding of the intuition behind the logic.

from three feet to six feet). Though you DO need to know what the word “radius” means, you do NOT need to know about equations or anything more than simple math to use form•Z.

The Rounding Workshop (J-Level), is about more than just rounding, as the general theme of curving and understanding more complex and free form geometry is also explored. At the K-Level, the Data/Metadata Workshop examines what qualifies as parametric, converting from parametric to non-parametric (Plain and Facetted) and the advantages or each. Finally, in the L-Level, Parametric Recap Workshop we finish off the general theme of parametric geometry and essential tools and moves.

MODULE FOUR (Day FOUR)

J-LeveL

ROundIng WORkshOp

(~3 hours)

K-LeveL

dAtA/MEtAdAtA WORkshOp

(~3 hours)

L-LeveL

pARAMEtRIc REcAp

(~3 hours)

91. Window Setup 111. UnderlayInterface

92. View Parameters 102. Grid & Direction Snap 112. Object SnapsNavigate

93. Smooth Geometry 103. Spherical/Star Objects 113. 3D TextDrAW

94. Edit Controls 2: Bezier 104. Query-Convert 114. AttributesPicK

95. [Place] 105. [Attach] 115. Smooth & Parametric RecapMOVe

96. 2D Round: Fillet/Bevel 106. Controlled Rounding 116. FilletingeDit

98. Sweep: 1 Source 108. Sweep: 2 Path 118. Draft SweepDeriVe

100. Building Rounding 110. Sweep Chair 120. --CASE Study

101. 5-Step Interface

97. 3D Round: Plain Round 107. Stitch Rounding 117. Blending

99. Sweep: 2 Source 109. Sweep: Boundary 119. Frame

PArAMetricS


12

DrAW

PicK

eDit

DeriVe

CASE Study

M-LeveL

MEsh IntRO

(~1.5 hours)

121. Symbols: Load, Place

122. Group 130. Join

121. Symbols: Create, Edit

138. Select By

137. Gear, Screw-Bolt

145. Object/Project Doctor

144. Formula Curve , Surface

N-LeveL

tERRAIn tOOLs

(~1.5 hours)

O-LeveL

MEsh MOVE(~1.5 hours)

P-LeveL

suBdIVIsIOn MEshIng

(~1.5 hours)

123. Meshes 131. Triangulate

124. Meshes: 1 Direction 132. Reduce Mesh

125. Meshes 2: Tartan 133. Disturb Mesh

139. Mesh Move1: Radial

140. Mesh Move2: Linear

140. Mesh Move3: Path

146. Q-Subz

147. T-Subz

148. Cage, Replace

126. Terrain 1 134: Terrain 2: Group & Cut

127. Building Mesh Floors 135. Road Type 1: Cut

141. Draft Sweep

142. Road Type 3: Sweep

149. Stair f. Path

150. Road 5: Model

128. Building Mesh Bays 136. Stone Wall

12

5


M O D U L E F I V E ( D ay F I V E )

M e S H i n G

Meshing is the process of dividing a 2D shape into a grid of smaller faces. By creating a meshing grid, we are able to gain the geometry needed to transform our geometry from the realm of the orthogonal to the realm of free form geometry. Adding faces also gives us additional rendering options.

Module 5 (Day 5) is largely dedicated to the realm of meshing as found in the Edit palette. Though the heavy emphasis on terrain modeling may suggest an emphasis on architecture, this module is vital to the disciplines of Point-of-Purchase and Industrial design as well symbols and compartmentalization.

We begin with the M-Level: Introduction to Meshing Workshop where we cover an introduction to meshing in three separate

One-on-One Skillsets. An introduction to terrain modeling (not just terrains) is also covered. Symbols are introduced in this workshop, a theme that continues into the next. Finally, two case studies provides examples that apply to all design disciplines.

The Terrain Tools Workshop (N-Level) continues the themes estab-lished in the previous workshop. Our focus on meshing concentrates on the subtleties and nuances of editing facetted meshes.

In the Mesh Movement Workshop we introduce the powerful Mesh Move tool through three segments. Finally, the Subdivision Meshing Workshop completes our cycling through the topic of meshing by cover-ing both Q-Subz and T-Subz, each a form of subdivision meshing, which is used in everything from product design to landscape architecture.

Whether you take the Group Workshops or One-on-One Workshops, each follows the structure shown on these pages while following along in “FormZone: the form•Z Bible.”

13


13


6M O D U L E S I X ( D a y S I X )

renDerinG

161. Strategies: Scale

Q-LeveL

REndERIng IntRO

(~1.5 hours)

R-LeveL

pARts WORkshOp

(~1.5 hours)

S-LeveL

pIEcEs WORkshOp

(~1.5 hours)

T-LeveL

REFInEMEnt WORkshOp

(~1.5 hours)

159. R-Zone Overview 169. R-Zone Settings 179. R-Zone Topics A 189. R-Zone Topics B

160. Simple House 170. Simple House 2CASE Study 180. Simple House 3 190. Lantern

152. TOOL Overview 162. Texture MapRendertools 172. TOOL: Text.Map 2 182. TOOL: Decal

153. COLOR: Simple Brick 163. Textured BrickColor

154. Matte & Plastic 164. Metal ReflectionsReflection

155. Simple, Center Edge 165. Stripe Transp.Transparency

173. Marble & Foliage

174. Catcher & Constant

175. Grid Transp.

183. Wood

184. Custom

185. Transp. Maps

156. Bump: Overview 166. Bump: Mist, RoughBump 176. Bump: Knurl 186. Bump Maps

158. Lights Intro 168. Distant Lights 178. Point Lights 188. Cone Lights

151. Rendering Overview 171. Strategies: Edges 181. --OVERVIEW

157. Photoshop: FZ Logo 167. Map Size, Import-ExportR e n d e r - 177. Image Map Seamless 187. PS: CompositePHOTOSHOP

LIGHT

RENdERZONE

procedural

shaders

The generation of the pixels is what this chapter is all about. Pixels are actually discussed in three areas within The form•Z Bible: Simple Rendering, RenderZone and the Interface chapter, where we cover the exporting of pixels in a format that can be read by Photoshop. The workshops on Adobe Photoshop further flesh out this essential skillset. We will often use the words “Photoshop file” as another way of saying bit-mapped or pixel-based image. Knowing Photoshop is an essential complementary skill to rendering in form•Z. You should also understand that RenderZone without Photoshop is

fully capable of generating photorealistic images. Photoshop allows you to work directly on the image that will be wrapped around the vectors. If the image is being repeated in a tiled pattern, you will want a seamless tile that does not show a sharp edge. Editing of the image map is most easily handled in Photoshop. We also utilize Photoshop to composite multiple renderings of the same scene. For example we might create one rendering with shadows on, another with shadows off, another showing hard-lined edges only and then used the layering in Photoshop to wipe away to the layers below to polish our rendering.


14

AniMAtiOn

Animation is a design tool, an essential aid to assist the designer in visualizing their creation. Our clients often mistake animation as just a tool for presenting ideas to their clients. Though Anima-tion is certainly key to presentations for some, animations also allow you to have new insights into the nature of the form you are creating.

The 7th module of our series is broken into three workshops, refl ecting the three areas of animation from within the program. Unlike Modules 1-5, we will not cycle between the 14 sections of “FORM•Z DEMYSTIFIED,” but instead focus on just one chapter: Animation.

In the Camera Animation Workshop, we’ll focus on moving the eye of the viewer through your project. Using keyframe animation

U-LeveL

cAMERAAnIMAtIOn

(~2 hours)

v-LeveL

QuIcktIME VR WORkshOp

(~2 hours)

W-LeveL

OBJEctAnIMAtIOn

(~2 hours)

CASE Study 1

CASE Study 2

193. Three Views Spline ClosedCASE Study 3

194. Adjusting AnimationCASE Study 4

195. Generating AnimationsCASE Study 5

196. Exporting FAN FilesCASE Study 6

197. Playing your MoviesCASE Study 7

198. Case Study 1CASE Study 8

199. Case Study 2CASE Study 9

200. Animation StrategiesCASE Study 10

191. Camera Animation Overview 211. Object Animation Overview

202. QTVR: Panorama 1 212. Object Anim: Setup

203. QTVR: Panorama 2 213. Object Anim: Move 1

204. QTVR: Panorama 3 214. Object Anim: Move 2

205.QTVR: Panorama 4 215. Object Anim: Rotate

201. Quicktime VR Overview

206. QTVR: Object 1 216. Object Anim: Case Study




210. QTVR: Players 220. Object Anim: Tools

192. Three Views Linear

1414

MODULE SEVEn (DAY SEVEn)7

techniques that harken back to the days of Walt Disney, we will connect saved views into a seamless stream of connected frames.

The Quicktime VR Workshop turns our attention to a different type of animation, one in which the viewer has control over the scene, allowing them to interactively navigate about. This hap-pens in one of two ways. A QTVR Panorama movie allows the viewer to rotate their view point not only 360º in a cylindrical fashion, but spherically as well, permitting the viewer to gaze up and down as well.

Version 6.0 of form•Z adds the ability to animate objects as well. The Object Animation Workshop covers the essential skills, from setting up object to animate, the paths they follow, velocity and exporting for others to view as well.

CASE Study 4

CASE Study 5

CASE Study 6

CASE Study 7

CASE Study 8

CASE Study 9

learn the new animation features in form•Z 6.0!

15


1515

8

X-LeveL

skInnIng WORkshOp

(~2 hours)

Y-LeveL

pAtch MOdELIng & MEtAFORMz

(~2 hours)

Z-LeveL

sOuRcEs (NO PATHS): c-Mesh, loFTING, NurBZ

(~3 hours)

221. Skinning Overview 241. Sources OverviewORGANICS 1

222. Skin Along Path: Vase 232. Patch 1: Patch Derive 242. C-Mesh 1: Open/ClosedORGANICS 2

223. Skin Along Path: Vase 2 233. Patch 2: Divide 243. C-Mesh 2: Open/ClosedORGANICS 3

224. Skin Along Path: Column 234. Patch 3: Chair 244. LoftingORGANICS 4

225. Skin Along Path: Car 235. Patch 4: Face 245. NurbZ IntroORGANICS 5

226. Skin Along Path: Snake 236. MetaformZ Overview 246. NurbZ 1: Open/ClosedORGANICS 6

231. Patch Modeling Overview

227. Cross Skinning: Ellipse 237. MetaformZ Derive-Edit 247. NurbZ 2: BoatORGANICS 7

228. Cross Skinning: Mountain 238. MetaformZ Evaluate 248. NurbZ Tools 1ORGANICS 8

229. Cross Skinning: Star 239. MetaformZ: Character 249. NurbZ Tools 2ORGANICS 9

230. Cross Skinning: 2 Source 240. MetaformZ: Rocks 250. NurbZ Tools 3ORGANICS 10

OrGAn i c S

The term ‘Organics’ is not to be found in the form•Z manual. We are using this term here in module 8 to describe a set of tools that create free form geometry that is neither rectangular or orthogonal. Modules 4 and 5 cover some rounded, revolved and swept geometries, meshes and even some very free form shapes using some of the meshing tools.

In module 8, we’re going to cover an introductory overview of Skin, Patch, MetaformZ, C-Mesh and NurbZ tools that are described here as Organics. Imagine a big Rose Parade float with a giant bear on it created entirely of flowers. Below the flowers you will find a mesh of chicken-wire type material into which the flowers are set. Below this mesh there is an

inner skeleton of welded metal bars that form a rough 3D outline around which the mesh is stretched. This is a good analogy for how most of the tools covered in this module operate. It is like creating a closed series of 2D shapes (known as sources) and connecting them together in the other direction with stiff wire (known as paths) and then wrapping the whole thing in shrink-wrap.

The Skinning Workshop covers a tool that uses both sources and paths to describe nearly any form you can imagine. In the Y-Level, the Patch Modeling and MetaformZ Workshop follows. Finally, at the Z-Level workshop, we complete our trip through form•Z with a look at C-Mesh and Lofting and an overview of the NurbZ tools that are the most sophisticated of the “Organic” tools in form•Z. .

MODULE EIGHT (Day EIGHT)



1�

Direct One-on-One Time spent with David Wolf

~ 1 hour of Direct One-on-One time with David WolfIn our Group Workshops, over a 4-5 day period you can rea-sonably expect to get about an hour of time working directly with David Wolf and asking questions that are of particular interest to you. Sure, some people come early or stay late and get two hours, but that’s the average.

You’ll also spend another 6 hours listening to other people’s questions, which can be useful, but often you’re listening to an explanation of something you already know. All questions are encouraged in a Group Workshop, which means we’ll explain whatever you ask, but if you know these topics already, hours spent on subjects you already understand is a potential waste of your time.

Price Group Workshops are twice the price of One-on-One

Here you are paying for live group instruction time, the class-room and computers and limited direct one-on-one time. As our clients often travel from throughout the world, Group Workshops can be 400% of the cost of One-on-One.

One-on-One Workshops are half the price of Group

Here you’re paying primarily for direct one-on-one time (and receiving what you need) and we pass the savings on to you. Throw in travel expenses and the One-on-One Workshops are less than 25% of the cost of Group Workshops.

Unlimited Direct One-on-One time with David WolfIn the One-on-One Workshops the amount of time spent work-ing directly one-on-one with David Wolf is unlimited! You get all the time you want or need, on demand, like raising your hand.

In Group Workshop your relationship is one teacher-student, In the One-on-One Workshops the structure allows us to work together as coach and trainee. The difference is that a teacher gives you the information and says “good luck,” where the coach says “now feed that information back to me and show me that you’ve got it. When taking Module 1 (Day 1) to Mod-ule 6 (Day 6), there are three scheduled Direct One-on-One Training Sessions and an unlimited number of additional ses-sions available on demand.

GrOUPWOrKSHOPS

One-On-OneWOrKSHOPS

1. The ZERO Module with David Wolf2. The 5-Step Interface 3. FormZone: the form•Z Bible 4. Group Workshops: 250 Skillsets

VS

Summary of Features

1. The ZERO Module with David Wolf2. The 5-Step Interface See page 4 for details.3. FormZone: the form•Z Bible See page 5 for details.4. One-on-One Sessions with David Wolf page 18.5. One-on-One Workshops: 250 Skillsets

Since 1996, The form•Z Demystified Workshops have followed the Group Workshop format. Following our mission to continually develop cutting edge training, we’ve created the new One-on-One version of the workshops over the last three years to further develop our unique FormZone Learning System, delivering to you a deeper and more profound learning experience.

Group Vs one-on-one: a comparison

NEW!NOW CELEBRAtING10 Years!

GrOUPWOrKSHOPS

One-On-OneWOrKSHOPS


17

Pace of Instruction

Group Training Goes at the Pace of the Group

With 12-15 participating in the Groups Workshops, the pace of the training is set by the range of experience each person brings to the classroom. There are invariably two or three people in the class who want to go faster and two or three that want to go slower. Some clients are able to absorb 7 hours per day, but most slow after 2 hours, which slows down the pace of the training.

Group Workshops is the perfect solution if you can absorb seven hours a day. But if not, group training can be like trying to drink from a firehose.


One-on-One Training at your Pace

With the new One-on-One Workshops, we go at your pace and convenience, the balance between instruction and review creates a much more integrated process of learning by doing. If you want to do eight days of training in eight days, you certainly can. However, you might maximize your efficiency by training for two hours a day and spreading it all out over two weeks a month or even two months. You set and can change the pace as you go. One-on-One also has the advantage of happening on your computer, the one you will work on each day, instead of learning on computer that does not belong to you.

Scheduling(& Flexibility)

Summary

Group Scheduling

Group workshops lock you in. If you don’t show up, you’ve missed the workshop, no refunds. Also, after five days of being away, many of our clients return home behind on their work and unable to do a proper review.

One-on-One Flexibility

One-on-One Workshops offer the flexibility to meet the demands of your hectic schedule, weekdays or weekends, consecutive days or spread out over months. You can re-structure our schedule, however anytime you would like.

Without question our 10th Anniversary, classroom-based form•Z Demystified Workshops provides the best quality training in form•Z that you will find anywhere. Our new One-on-One version, however is vastly superior. Nonetheless, we continue to offer the Group Workshops for those who insist on the familiarity of a group setting. Call today for our schedule in a city near you.

Developed and tested over a three year period, our new One-on-One Workshops take a decade of form•Z training excellence to new heights. The bottom line: Twice the quality for half the price, unlimited one-on-one time with David Wolf versus a few hours in a classroom setting. Our new One-on-One workshops are the most effective way to learn form•Z, guaranteed or your money back.

GrOUPWOrKSHOPS

One-On-OneWOrKSHOPS

VS

Group Workshops=Teaching

In a classroom setting, Group Workshops give you teacher-student relationships with David Wolf, character-ized by the by the usual “here’s the information, call me if you have any questions. Though follow-up support is offered, Group Workshops put all the structure into phase 1, the teaching of the 250 Essential Skillsets.

Testing and follow-through

One-on-One Workshops=Coaching

The One-on-One Workshops allow us to focus your resources on the second phase of learning form•Z, as you are trying to integrate the skills into your brain. You receive an unlimited amount of One-on-One time with David Wolf to test and ask questions as you go. See page 20 for details and call for the FREE Zero Module Workshop.

NEW!

Call now foR a fREE onE-on-onE lEsson on youR CompuTER aT youR loCaTion.

888.986.8665

NOW CELEBRAtING10 Years!

Group Workshops Summary One-on-One Workshops Summary

®

OPTIO

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sf, La, ChICaGo, nEw York, Boston

1�

san francisco: february 20-24, april 24-28, July 10-14, september 25-29, november 13-17.

Los angeles: march 20-25, June 5-9, september 18-22, october 9-13, november 6-10.

Chicago: march 13-17, June 26-30, september 25-29.

new York: march 6-10, June 19-23, september 18-22.

Boston: march 20-24, June 12-17, september 11-15.

1. The Zero Module: One-on-One with David Wolf 1 hour.

2. The 5-Step Interface See page 4 for complete details.

3. FormZone: the form•Z Bible See page 5 for complete details.

4. Group Workshops Each workshop is 7 hours in length, 9-5 pm.Computer provided. Workshops limited to 15 participants per session. See pages 7-15 for topics and structure.

G r o u p w o r k s h o p s I n C L u d E

4 Days . $360 per day 5 Days .. $340 per day6 Days .$320 per day

7 Days ..$300 per day8 Days ..$280 per day

One-on-One option is 50% of the price of Group Workshops!

“You couldn’t

make a better

investment if

you are trying

to understand

something as

powerful and

sophisticated as

form•Z.”

Tim Kobe

Principal - Eight Inc.

G r O U PWOrKSHOPS

“Great teaching is both science and art. David Wolf amply fulfills the criteria of both. As an artist and professor, I have been using and teaching digital imaging for seven years and am a demanding (and usually disappointed) consumer of training. Too often they are long on rote recitation of the handbook and/or tutorials, and critically short of insights into how to synthesize the structure, interface and logic to facilitate their learning and workflow. David reconcep-tualizes form•Z’s powerful tools to give participants a faster path to competence, but more importantly he provides them with a means to problem-solve from an ex-pansive design framework that transcends the applica-tion. The fundamental logic is of equal use to artists, designers and architects. It is always a pleasure and privilege to learn from some-one who is a gifted teacher and for my money, David

qualifies hands down.”

Brian Sikes

Professor of Art and Art HistoryDe Paul University: Chicago, Illinois

Since 1996, Architects Toolbox our highly acclaimed series,The form•Z Demystified Workshops have raised the standard for training excellence. Following a Group Workshop format these hands-on classes are based on our exclusive FormZone Learning System and the 250 Essential Skillsets outlined on the previous pages, in a traditional classroom based, hands-on setting.

CLIENT VIDEOSee our website to hear what your colleagues have to say on our new Client Video at archtool.com

G r o u p w o r k s h o p s p r I C I n G

2 0 0 6 G r o u p w o r k s h o p s C h E d u L E

NOW CELEBRAtING10 Years!1 9 9 6 - 2 0 0 6

888.986.8665 architectstoolbox.com

Architects Toolbox, the 5-Step Interface, Form•Z Bible and Skillset Segments are a trademark of David Wolf and Architects Toolbox. All rights reserved. © 2005. Prices apply to Beta 2 only and are subject to change with the release of Beta 3.

OPTI

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on Your ComputEr at Your LoCatIon

One-On-OneWOrKSHOPS


1�

NEW!The new 10th anniversary One-on-One version of The form•Z Demystified Workshops was developed and beta-tested over a three year period with design professionals throughout the United States and Europe.

The One-on-One Workshops give you all the components of the Group Workshops combined with UNLIMITED direct one-on-one time with FormZone author David Wolf on your computer at your location and convenience, anywhere in the world via LiveInteractive (see page 6).

The One-on-One Workshops can be scheduled weekdays or weekends. Scenario I: 1 Module per day (about seven hours per day). Scenario II: 1 Module per week (7 hours per week).Scenario III: 1 Module per month (~1.5 to 2 hours per week).

1 Day .... $285

2 Days . $260 per day

3 Days .. $190 per day

4 Days . $210 per day

5 Days ..$185 per day

6 Days .$160 per day



SPECIAL LIMITED

BETA 2 PRICING:

1/2 PRICE OF GROUP

WORKSHOPS

1. The Zero Module: One-on-One with David Wolf 1 hour. 2. The 5-Step Interface See page 4 for complete details.3. FormZone: the form•Z Bible See page 5 for complete details.4. Unlimited Direct One-on-One on Demand with David Wolf5. One-on-One Workshops See below and page 21 for details. See pages 7-15 for topics covered and the general structure followed.

o n E - o n - o n E w o r k s h o p s I n C L u d E

onE-on-onE workshop spECIaL BEta 2 prICInG

o n E - o n - o n E w o r k s h o p s C h E d u L E

250 essential Skillsets

IntROductORyWORkshOps

The One-on-One workshops can be organized and reorganized anyway that is convenient and works for you!

P A c K A G e

tHe cOMPlete

Normally $295, the Compendium Package is $99 when enrolling in a workshop. See page 5 for details.

Unlimited One-on-One

with David Wolf is

available along with

scheduled One-on-One

Training sessions at the

transitions between

modules. Question? Just

raise your hand. For

details, see page 20.

MOduLE 1 (dAy 1) A-c LEVEL W O R k s h O p s

MOduLE 2 (dAy 2)

MOduLE 3 (dAy 3)

MOduLE 4 (dAy 4)

MOduLE 5 (dAy 5)

MOduLE 6 (dAy 6)

MOduLE 7 (dAy 7)

MOduLE 8 (dAy 8)

d-F LEVEL W O R k s h O p s

g-I LEVEL W O R k s h O p s

J-L LEVEL W O R k s h O p s

M-p LEVEL W O R k s h O p s

Q-t LEVEL W O R k s h O p s

u-W LEVEL W O R k s h O p s

X-z LEVEL W O R k s h O p s

AdVAncEdWORkshOps

IntERMEdIAtEWORkshOps

One-On-Onew i t h

DAViD WOlF

®

OPTIO

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2


The idea of a group workshop is to get training from an expert instructor with the effi ciency and affordability of grouping it with a dozen others who want to learn the same thing. This is what we have done at Architects Toolbox for 10 years. In our group workshops of four or fi ve days, you can reasonably expect to get one hour of direct one-on-one time with your instructor directly answering your questions.

The One-on-One version of the workshops give you unlimited personal training sessions with David Wolf on your computer at your location via LiveInteractive. Consider them to be similar to a college lecture, lab and open offi ce hours with the professor at your desk. In addition to three planned sessions, you get unlimited Q&A sessions with David Wolf during the workshops that allow you to say, “Hey, come over here to my computer and help me out.”

on Your ComputEr, at Your LoCatIon

One-On-Onew i t h

DAViD WOlF

20

Unbelievable! Like “driving

lessons in a car with two steering

wheels,” your hands-on lessons

with David Wolf take place on your

computer, at your location. Call for

a free demonstration lesson.

Personal training

In an ideal world you would hire someone to patiently sit with you hour after hour, day after day and explain

form•Z to you on your computer at your pace and convenience.

The LiveInteractive Link makes this possible in a way that is better than sitting side by side. Hard to believe?

Call now for a free demo lesson.

Live Interactivel i n K

1. FOUnDAtiOnSA to C-Level: Skillset 1-30

Pre WOrKSHOP OrientAtiOn: 1 hOuR dIREct OnE-On-OnE cOAchIng sEssIOn WIth dAVId WOLF

c) Skill Assessmentd) Scheduling of Workshops

e) 1-6 Month Skill Goalsf) Long Term Career Goals

g) Strategies for learning h) Orientation to Skillsets

a) Installation of 5-Step Interface. b) Current design approaches

Customized to your particular design and project needs, skill needs and strategies for going through the skillsets.

BEgInnIng WORkshOps IntERMEdIAtE WORkshOps AdVAncEd WORkshOps

2. FAceS FAcetS FActSD to F-Level: Skillset 31-60

3. PreciSiOnG to I-Level: Skillset 61-90

4. PArAMetricSJ to L-Level: Skillset 91-120

5. MeSHinGM to P-Level: Skillset 121-150

6. PArAMetricSQ to T-Level: Skillset 151-190

7. AniMAtiOnU to W-Level: Skillset 1-30

8. OrGAnicSX to Z-Level: Skillset 1-30

POSt WOrKSHOP OrientAtiOn: dIREct OnE-On-OnE cOAchIng And skILL tEstIng WIth dAVId WOLF

Final check-in with David Wolf. This session can be customized to your questions, needs and future projects.

The 250 Skillset Segments includes unlimited direct One-on-One access to David Wolf. See pp 7-15 for workshop descriptions.

c) Strategy for Stage 2: Synthesisd) Stage 3: Learning by doing

e) 1-6 Month Skill Goalsf) Long Term Career Goals

g) Closing goalsh) Q&A

a) Review of 250 Skillsetsb) Evaluation of Skills

888.986.8665 architectstoolbox.com

MIdpOInt sEssIOn WIth dAVId WOLF

thE 250

EssEntIAL

skILLsEts

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21

a-LEVEL to Z-LEVEL workshops

250 SKillSetSeGMentS

Our new 10th anniversary One-on-One version of The form•Z Demystified Workshopscombines the best of four essential elements: 1) the Formulator Package and 5-Step Interface, 2) “FormZone: the form•Z Bible,” 3) One-on-One Training Sessions and 4) One-on-One Skillsets at architectstoolbox.com, which comprise the bulk of the workshops in 250 Skillsets.

An example of one of these segments is shown below. After the instructional half of the Skillset segment (see below), David Wolf assists you in follow-up audio, talking you through the process of repeating the given exercise hands on with your copy (or free demo) of form•Z.


When you have a question, you’ll click on the phone icon in the bottom right of the screen to be connected to our studio and have your question answered directly (see detail below, bottom right). A regular phone while logging into the LiveInteractive Link also allows us to work interactively on your computer.

These interactive sessions may be accessed at any time day or night, seven days a week. The workshops may be scheduled one module per day, spread out over a week, two weeks, a month; up to three months, allowing you to customize the training to your schedule and pace. Call today for a free demonstration lesson.

An Example: skillset #24There are 250 Skillset Segments between the A-Level and Z-Level workshops.

INSTRUCTION: The timeline (bottom) allows you to “scrub” back to fi nd the moment of interest in review.

FORMZONE: THE FORM•Z BIBLE is the essential complementas each Skillset is coupled with a page in the book.

FOLLOW-UP AUDIO talks you through the process as you turn to repeat the excercise hands-on after the instruction.

QUESTIONS? Either click on the Skype button for a live audio connection or simply phone and we’ll connect to your computer through the LiveInteractive Link to help you on your computer directly.

There are 250 Skillset Segments between

CALL 888.986.8665 RIGHT NOW FOR A FREE ONE--ON-ONE LESSON ON YOUR COMPUTER AT YOUR LOCATION.

Includes UNLIMITED One-on-One Sessions with David Wolf (see p. 20).

On the form•Z Forum!By RobRoy Campbell (electronaut): First of all, I’m not an architect. I design & build vacuum tube audio amplifi ers for recording, and I was looking for a way to model all the parts I commonly use so I could more easily imagine assembly of these devices. I tried VectorWorks, and found that the 3D modelling tools were fairly limited. VectorWorks seems much more suited for architects. I’m pretty savvy with comput-ers, but frankly form•Z intimidated me because of the million tools and billion options for each tool.

The classes offered by Architect’s Toolbox broke down this seemingly complex program into some much simpler concepts. David Wolf has ob-viously put a large amount of time into conceptualizing and refi ning his teaching process. He breaks the program down into 5 basic concepts, (Draw, Pick, Move, Edit, and Derive) the concept being that most any-thing you will do in form•Z will fall into one of these categories. The ac-companying three-ring binder is fi lled with graphical representations of each lesson, and the book is organized according to the 5 concepts. Also, if you get the “customized interface”, it comes with well thought-out keyboard shortcuts, and custom tool palettes that are arranged ac-cording to the 5 concepts.

I found the “5 concepts” approach to be very helpful. I especially liked the pace of the class and the way it was arranged. For example, we would do the fi rst few lessons of the “Draw” section of the handbook, then skip the rest of that section and move on to the “Pick” section, do the fi rst few lessons & skip the rest, etc. Then later, we would go back and pick up where we left off. This approach helped cover a wide range

By Jack Bransfi eld (ricard23) “I’m considering signing up for a Form•Z course given by Architect’s Toolbox. It sounds like a great course that teaches an ef-fi cient, methodical way of using the program, rather than just describing com-mands, etc. The site includes a long list of rave reviews from past students of the course, but it is expensive, and I was hoping to get some feedback from

“Below are some models of vacuum tubes I did,

two weeks after taking the class. Again, I was

TOTALLY NEW to form•Z

before taking the class.”

others on this forum before I sign up. Has anyone taken these courses? What was your level of experience when you took the course? How did it help you? Any feedback would be appreciated.” Jack

By Jack Bransfi eld (ricard23) “I just got back from the Architect’s Toolbox course and loved it. I wrote the following testimonial for David and thought I’d post it here as well. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about the course.

I bought Form•Z a year and a half ago, and had been trying to teach myself to use it in my spare time. I was able to learn a few of the tools, but I hadn’t re-ally mastered any of them, and there were dozens more that I hadn’t touched. And although the Form•Z manuals are very comprehensive, they can be overwhelming when you’re looking for a basic understanding of the program. David’s course has been incredibly valuable because it presents nearly all of form•Z’s powerful tools in an exceptionally clear, logical manner.

His customized interface and key shortcuts make the program’s features MUCH more accessible than the stock confi guration. In the past I had been a bit skeptical of using any computer program (even Form•Z) for de-sign because it forces the user to adapt to the program’s logic (compare the knowledge required to sketch with a pencil vs. building a 3d computer

model) . But David’s approach makes this technology much more transpar-ent. In the same way that we don’t think twice about using a telephone to speak to someone far away, his intuitive verbal approach allows you to start taking Form•Z for granted and concentrate on the design tasks you want to accomplish. I have just returned from the January course, and I’m ex-cited (not intimidated) to start using Form•Z for some new architectural proj-ects. I only wish I had known about his course when I bought the program.

David’s teaching style is fundamental to the course’s success. He tailored the class to fi t the skill level of our group, and always accommodated our ques-tions and requests whenever possible. His creativity and sense of humor kept our attention all the way through the course. I think it’s quite an accomplish-ment to keep an entire class engaged and learning for six hours a day! I would recommend the course highly to anyone interested in developing a strong foundation of skills in Form•Z.”

Jack Bransfi eld [email protected]

RobRoy CampbellChicago, IL

of concepts gradually, resulting in a basic skill level “foundation” on which to add the more advanced skills.

My main complaint was that the class was really tailored to architects’ needs, but Dave IS an architect after all. To his credit, he really did go out of his way to make sure every individual student’s requirements were met, often pointing out things to certain students that would be specifi -cally benefi cial to them. I was TOTALLY NEW to form•Z, and the guy next to me had already been using it for a year, and I think we both walked away a lot more informed.

I guess the proof is in the pudding. It’s been a month since I took the class, and so far I’m WAY beyond where I think I would have been if I had simply studied the manuals and the tutorial. I’ve been making models that are blowing my friends’ minds! “Looks like a PHOTOGRAPH!”

For me, it was worth the hefty $980 (even though I didn’t have a “boss” paying for it) to learn it in four days, as opposed to spending months read-ing boring manuals. That said, there are certainly cheaper alternatives. The form•Z forum has been great to me so far, and the “Desktop Compan-ion” book is great too, at least for reference. Admittedly, I never actually tried the auto*des*sys tutorial, which ADS strongly recommends. But if you prefer fast, intensive, brain-cramming methods of learning, this class is for you.

Good luck! E. Lectreau

Theyʼre talking About Us

More than two years later, I am amazed at what I learned in 4 days. I wish all my intellectual endeavours could be as productive.

Jack Bransfi eldArchitect

Chicago, IL


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