What is the most efficient way to model this kind of wrought-iron shape?

Question

I only care about the sphere and its design, not the bird on top.

This kind of curvy iron design shows up on many Victorian designs and other examples of old-fashioned smithing. How can I efficiently produce a sphere like this? (Also feel free to comment/edit if you know a more precise term for this than just "curvy Victorian ironwork.")

My first idea was to make a wireframe UV sphere, then model the curvy bits separately. Then, if I could somehow snap the curvy bits to the sphere in a way that makes the bits follow the curve of the sphere, I could do something with an Array modifier. However, I don't know how to snap objects that way.

Another example of the "curvy bits" I'm talking about:

_{(source: rackcdn.com)}

Answer 1

Looking at what you're wanting to achieve, I think using the decimate modifier >un-subdivide with 1 iteration should work well to get you started, and keep a uniform pattern across the model. Hope that helps get you started.

Answer 2

This is no shortcut. But you will have detailed control over your model.

I would start with a highres UVsphere and then add geometry with snap and shrinkwrap to follow the spheres surface.

Then add a solidify modifier followed by a subsurface modifier:

You can apply the solidify modifier and fiddle with the geometry if you want to make it beveled or such.

Answer 3

Some assorted ideas.

• Left to Right.
• Start with sphere or cylinder. Place Ends. Push Pull. Loop Cuts.
• Proportional Editing.
• Curve Modifier. Example Curve in Red.
• Sizing to Curve. More proportional editing
• Modify Twist on Curve. Consider Shrink Wrap Modifier to sphere for curve only. Not Mesh.
• You can be more artistic than shown above
• Arrange to sphere not shown