@ToddTroutt and I recently put together a video series that follows our full design-to-build process for the Top Dog Trophy. The series is called xDesign for Makers (Getting Started Video Series), and it walks through how we used SOLIDWORKS xDesign and xShape to take the project from the initial idea all the way to the final build. This was an awesome opportunity to design and fabricate a really fun trophy while showcasing some incredibly powerful tools along the way.   📺🎬 Check out the video below 🎬📺

We kicked things off with a brainstorming session using the 3D Whiteboard. This was a great place for us to gather our ideas and start shaping the concept. We added reference images, sketches, notes, and even links to potential materials we might use for the build. It allowed us to visually organize the direction of the project and collaborate in a really intuitive way before jumping into the modeling phase.

From there, we moved into the design stage and began developing the trophy using the modeling tools, eventually carrying the project all the way through to the final fabrication.

Using xDesign, we were quickly able to model the base of the trophy with accurate measurements and well-defined geometry. One of the biggest advantages of working in xDesign is how fast you can move from a concept to a fully defined parametric model. We were able to establish the overall proportions, define the critical dimensions, and ensure that everything would work correctly when it came time to fabricate the parts.

The parametric tools made it easy to refine the design as we went, allowing us to adjust dimensions and features without slowing down the workflow. This flexibility was especially helpful as we balanced the aesthetic design of the trophy with the practical considerations needed for manufacturing and assembly.

By building the base with precise geometry from the start, we were able to create a strong foundation for the rest of the design. It ensured that all of the additional components would integrate properly and gave us confidence that the final build would come together exactly as planned.

Using the xShape tab inside xDesign, I was able to jump right into sculpting the main character for the trophy—including his cool sunglasses. This is where the design really started to come to life.

I absolutely love using xShape. I always say it feels a lot like working with digital clay. Instead of being locked into rigid geometry, you can push, pull, and shape the surfaces in a really natural and intuitive way. It allows you to quickly explore organic forms and refine the overall character of a design without slowing down your creative flow.

For a project like this, that freedom is incredibly valuable. I was able to focus on the personality and attitude of the character while gradually refining the details and proportions. The Sub-D modeling tools made it easy to adjust the shapes until everything felt just right. Being able to move seamlessly between parametric modeling in xDesign and organic sculpting in xShape made the entire process incredibly smooth. It gave us the flexibility to combine precise engineering with more expressive design elements, which was perfect for creating a fun and memorable trophy.

🎬 Check out this video of the building process. This was taken from the SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers video series.  

You can watch the full video series below. If you’re a maker, designer, or just love seeing projects go from sketch to reality, this series is perfect for you! We keep things super hands-on: logging into the platform for the first time, planning the project, modeling solid and organic shapes, exploring learning resources, sharing designs with others, and finally showing off the finished build. It’s packed with tips, behind-the-scenes moments, and a ton of practical stuff to help you get started with xDesign tools.

👉 Watch the full playlist on YouTube to see the entire project come to life.