Boolean Operations

Boolean operations combine two shapes to create new geometry. They're named after mathematician George Boole.

The Three Operations

Union (Add)

Combines two shapes into one.

• Like gluing shapes together
• Removes internal surfaces
• Use for: Joining parts, building up forms

Subtract (Difference)

Removes one shape from another.

• Like carving or drilling
• First selected = kept, second = removed
• Use for: Holes, cutouts, carving

Intersect

Keeps only the overlapping volume.

• Where both shapes exist
• Everything else is removed
• Use for: Finding common areas, precise cuts

How to Use

1. Add two shapes that overlap
2. Select BOTH shapes (Shift+click)
3. Choose the boolean operation from toolbar
4. A new object is created (originals hidden)

Selection Order Matters (for Subtract)

• First selected = Base shape (kept)
• Second selected = Tool shape (cuts away)

Example: Cube - Sphere

• Select cube first
• Shift+click sphere
• Click Subtract
• Result: Cube with spherical hole

Tips

• Shapes MUST overlap for meaningful results
• Keep originals for experiments (they're hidden, not deleted)
• Union is great for combining parts
• Subtract is great for creating holes
• Intersect is useful for precise fitting