Matilda Ekholm
Rimowa Suitcase
Programs: Blender, Adobe Premiere Pro
Background
The task was to create a product video that clearly demonstrates the functionality of a product. Based on feedback from my previous project where I was encouraged to focus more on details I chose to recreate a suitcase from Rimowa.
Initially, I assumed it would be a relatively simple product to model in Blender, as many of its components are repetitive. However, as the process progressed, I realized that it was far more complex than I had anticipated.
Challenge
The biggest challenge I faced was creating the signature pattern on the suitcase. At first, I struggled to determine whether the grooves were indented or protruding, but eventually concluded that they extend outward.
When I began modeling the pattern, it felt difficult to know where to start. In hindsight, I think the challenge came from trying to manage too many technical details at once. I found myself constantly questioning my workflow everything from “Did I apply a bevel here?” to “Why is this edge rounded when I want it to be sharp?” only to realize it was due to modifiers like subdivision surface affecting the geometry.
Solution
Initially, I planned to create the pattern directly on the suitcase model. However, while experimenting with different approaches, I accidentally applied my subdivision surface modifier, which resulted in overly dense geometry that became difficult to work with.
Fortunately, I found an alternative solution by using curves. This allowed me to build the pattern more efficiently while maintaining full control over the shape and structure. By working with curves, I could refine the design more precisely and adapt it to match the form of the suitcase.
Result
Although I received feedback that, in a real client scenario, deadlines are not a valid reason to compromise or leave elements unfinished, I am still very satisfied with how the final suitcase turned out. The project pushed me to learn a great deal throughout the process.
Hopefully, I won’t need to place around 60 individual screws again anytime soon but it’s reassuring to know that I can handle that level of detail, even under time pressure.
See what else I’ve been working on
