ShapeLab (2017)

ShapeLab, developed by Leopoly, offers an accessible and enjoyable co-creation experience in virtual reality. The early access version of the app is currently focused on single-user functionality, providing a streamlined set of features. The development team values user feedback and will use it to refine the app, ensuring it meets the needs and desires of its growing community. This early release empowers HTC Vive users to tap into their creativity and produce personalized, vibrant 3D models in a fun and interactive way.

The combination of the Leopoly engine and the HTC Vive system simplifies the 3D modeling process, allowing users to create in an intuitive and engaging manner. ShapeLab transforms the process of crafting virtual objects into an enjoyable experience, much like traditional sculpting, where users mold and shape their designs with ease. The virtual environment provides a more natural platform for creation, making it easier for individuals to engage with their creativity in ways that were previously difficult to access.

Users can start from a variety of options: beginning with a basic 3D template or building something entirely from scratch. Whether sculpting, painting, or experimenting with different tools, ShapeLab encourages a seamless creative process. It allows users to easily store their creations, returning to them whenever inspiration strikes. Additionally, all designs can be exported in popular file formats, including STL and OBJ, ensuring they are ready for 3D printing.

The app offers a range of core features that help bring 3D models to life:

• Start fresh with a sphere template or choose from pre-designed 3D models.
• Utilize seven sculpting tools, with more being added regularly.
• Enjoy unlimited painting options to add color and detail to your designs.
• Save and open your 3D models whenever you want to continue your work.
• Export designs in STL or OBJ formats for 3D printing.
• Share your creations with friends and others in the community.

Looking ahead, ShapeLab plans to introduce a suite of additional features and tools, transforming the app into a more robust and social virtual reality experience. The development team is working to support more VR headsets, expand design capabilities, and enable shared creative sessions, allowing users to collaborate with others in real-time. Imagine participating in a virtual co-creation party with friends from around the world—working together on the same models, exchanging ideas, and building something unique.

Planned upcoming features include:

• Spectator Mode: Users will be able to stream their models in real-time, allowing others to view the creation process in VR.
• Co-Creation Mode: Multiple users can work on the same project simultaneously, even editing the same 3D mesh.
• Enhanced multi-object handling and advanced design tools for greater flexibility.
• Screenshot functionality to capture moments of the creative process.
• Online, browser-based model sharing to showcase and distribute designs.
• Importing 3D models from the web for further editing and refinement.
• Switching between different VR environments for more diverse creative possibilities.

ShapeLab is continually evolving to offer more features, improve the user experience, and foster a global community of creators. By offering both intuitive solo creation and future collaborative capabilities, it sets the stage for an exciting journey into the world of virtual reality modeling. Whether you're an aspiring 3D artist or simply someone with a creative spark, ShapeLab makes it easy to bring your ideas to life in a dynamic virtual world.

ShapeLab is a fun and simple VR tool that makes creating 3D models easy and enjoyable. Even with its early access limitations, it lets you sculpt, paint, and design in ways that feel natural and playful. If you like trying out creative VR apps, this one is worth your time.

The app is especially good for beginners who want to experiment with 3D design without being overwhelmed. Saving your work for 3D printing or sharing is straightforward, and the basic tools are enough to spark your imagination. It’s not perfect yet, but it shows a lot of promise.

We recommend ShapeLab if you want a light, creative VR experience that’s easy to pick up and use. It’s not a full professional design suite yet, but for fun, learning, and exploring VR creativity, it’s a solid choice.