How to Turn a 2D Image or Logo Into a 3D Model

What to Know

Create an SVG file in Inkscape: Select an image file, select Path > Trace Bitmap, set parameters, then save the traced image.
Then, import the SVG file into Autodesk Fusion 360. Open Autodesk Fusion 360, select Create, choose Create Sketch, and click the plane.
Go to Insert > Insert SVG > Select SVG file, open your SGV file, select OK > Finish Sketch > Create > Extrude, and follow the prompts.

This article explains how to use Inkscape to turn a JPEG or another image into SVG format and then import it into CAD software, such as the free Autodesk Fusion 360.

The Process of Turning 2D Images Into 3D Models

The first part of this process involves turning a JPEG image, or an image in another file format, into the SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) format. This type of file is also known as a vector image. A vector image is a 2D geometric representation of a picture.

After you create the SVG file, import it into CAD software, where it automatically becomes a sketch. This process eliminates the need for detailed tracing.

The image should have clearly defined edges and lots of solid colors. A good high-resolution photo, simple sketches, or tattoo-like images work well.

You can also use this method to work with more complex images. However, you need some intermediate knowledge of Inkscape.

Create an SVG File With Inkscape

The first step in turning a 2D image into a 3D model is to create an SVG file. To follow along with this tutorial, download and work with a copy of the Inkscape logo as an example.

Download the Inkscape logo and save the image to your computer.
Download Inkscape from the Inkscape website, then open the application.

Inkscape is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Select File > Import.
Select the Inkscape logo you saved, then select OK.
The Inkscape logo is now in the Inkscape application, ready to be modified.
Select the Lock icon so that width and height will be changed proportionally.
Make sure units are set to mm (millimeters) or in (inches), and then change the image size to whatever works for your printer.
Select the image and then select Path > Trace Bitmap.
Set optimal parameters for the trace. For this simple black-and-white image, select Edge Detection, then select Update. Leave the other default settings.

These settings depend on the complexity of the image. Experiment with the settings and learn what each setting does. Be sure to try other images, as well.
A trace of the image appears in the window. Select OK.

Try different settings, then select Update to see the effect.
Drag the original image away from the work area and select Delete, leaving behind only the traced image.
Go to File > Save and save the image as an SVG file.

Import the Image Into CAD Software

The next part of the process of turning a 2D image into a 3D model involves importing the SVG file you created into CAD software. Use any CAD software you're comfortable with. This tutorial uses Autodesk Fusion 360, which is free for personal use. You'll need a free Autodesk account to get started.

Open Autodesk Fusion 360, select the Create button, then choose Create Sketch to start a new sketch.
Select a plane on the workspace.
Select the Insert button on the menu bar, then select Insert SVG.
In the Insert SVG toolbox window, choose the Select SVG file button.
Find the SVG file you created earlier, then select Open.
Select OK on the Insert SVG tool window to insert the drawing into the sketch.
Choose Finish Sketch from the Sketch Palette.
You now have a trace of the image in a 3D CAD sketch without having to do any time-consuming, manual tracing.
From the ribbon menu, select Create > Extrude.
Select the profile you want to plot.
Enter an extrusion height, such as .2 mm, and then select OK to complete the extrusion process.

For extrusion height, refer to your printer's default printing height.
Right-click the top-level object in your Fusion document from the menu on the left, and then select Save as STL.
In the confirmation dialog box, select OK.
Choose a save location, and then select Save.
You've created a 3D model from a 2D image with the help of the free tools Inkscape and Autodesk Fusion 360.

Multiple-colored SVGs are more interesting. Save an SVG file with multiple layers of sketches, with a sketch for each color.

The techniques described in this article are courtesy of expert 3D modeler James Alday of ImmersedN3D. This method works best with simple sketches or images. For more complex images, you'll need some intermediate knowledge of Inkscape not covered in this tutorial.