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Recently, Formlabs engineer Brian Chan wanted to improve his 3D modeling skills. To get started, he used a customizable STL model that was shaped like a generic four-legged animal. With just digital sculpting software and a pen tablet, he turned the model into all types of creatures, from a griffin to a Shiba Inu. You can download the STL below and use it to practice 3D modeling on your own.
To transform the model, Brian used Pixologic’s Sculptris, a free digital sculpting software. Optionally, a pen tablet will give you greater control over your sculpting movements, helping you create details faster—Brian opted for a Wacom version.
![3D Sculpting Original Model](https://archive-media.formlabs.com/upload/stl_model.png#autosize=2808)
![3D Sculpting Griffin](https://archive-media.formlabs.com/upload/stl_griffin.jpg#autosize=2810)
![3D Sculpting Dog](https://archive-media.formlabs.com/upload/dog_composite.jpg#autosize=2813)