From Cardboard to Composite: The CAD, 3D Scan & Print Process for our Shower

A deep dive into the digital design workflow behind a custom composite shower floor for a sailboat refit. This isn't just CAD—it's the full cycle: starting with hands-on "Cardboard Assisted Design" (CAD) for ergonomics and feel, translating that into precise 3D computer models, verifying fits with 3D scanning, and finally preparing files for 3D printing the moulds. In this video, we cover: Transitioning from a physical cardboard mock-up to a digital 3D model. Detailed CAD design of the shower floor's drainage: creating a central valley, specifying falls (slopes), and integrating a large inspection hatch. Engineering the hatch: seal compression stops, water flow ramps, and dual retention systems (bungee & mechanical). Designing the integrated sump with a hair trap and carbon fiber drain tube. Using 3D scanning to verify CAD models against the actual, irregular hull geometry for critical component placement (like the toilet). Preparing the CAD model for 3D printing: splitting the mould, print settings for vacuum infusion (shells, infill), and lessons on material consistency. This video is for makers, boat builders, and anyone interested in the hybrid process of blending traditional problem-solving with modern digital fabrication tools. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro: Cardboard to CAD 01:30 - 2D CAD Overview & Drainage Planning 03:15 - 3D CAD Deep Dive: Floor Falls & Wedges 06:45 - Hatch Design: Seals, Compression Stops & Geometry 12:10 - Sump & Drain Design 15:30 - Integrating Other Components (Toilet, Plumbing) 18:45 - Verifying with 3D Scanning 23:20 - From CAD to 3D Printed Mould 27:00 - 3D Print Setup & Settings for Tooling 29:50 - Process Recap & Conclusion USEFUL LINKS ➜ Supporting blog post https://youngbarnacles.com/boat-shower-floor-design-cad-3d-scan-print-workflow/ ➜ Want to go deeper? Access our detailed composites videos, project files, and community on the Youngbarnacles Members Hub: https://youngbarnacles.com/plans/all-access-memberships/ ➜ Need world-class engineering for your project? Learn more about our professional design and consultancy services at SYAS Performance: https://syasperformance.weebly.com/ ➜ Free Sailing Library: Check out our free guides on composites, systems, and seamanship: https://www.youngbarnacles.com/resources MUSIC YouTube Audio Library ➜ https://www.youtube.com/ SAFETY DISCLAIMER: PROFESSIONAL WORK This video documents professional marine work with significant risk of injury or vessel damage. This is NOT DIY instruction. You are solely responsible for your own safety and actions. We are not liable for any application of this information. Full Disclaimer: https://youngbarnacles.com/website-disclaimer/