3d bezier curves

Why?

Shows you how to use PowerPoint's drawing and 3d tools to save time and use PowerPoint's own editing and creation tools.

So you know where we are heading, here is the example:

If you feel uncomfortable with drawing lines and curves, I suggest you check out Echo Swinford's excellent tutorial on bezier curves.

Bezier Curves

Now, on with the job!

First, start by adding a freeform line.

Draw the line following points 1 to 5, then to the end.

Double-clicking ends the shape, in this case, the shape was not closed (or joined) properly.

Right-clicking on the activated shape brings up a menu where points can be edited. If you have a gap in your line and it is not joined to the start point, you can click on "close curve" and it will join the shape fully.

Depth is added with the 3d toolbar.

In this example, the depth is set to 10 points.

Then we format the shape. The object is then tilted over using the Tilt Up button on the 3d toolbar.

Right-click and select "Format Autoshape".

Fill color is set to brown and yellow to simulate soil.

Depth colour is set to a similar color as the surface, but you can set this yourself after experimenting. I then used the free form tool to draw some rivers.

The resultant catchment can be enhanced with Clip Art trees added to taste, as other elements.

© Glen Millar