Subtract for Holes

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Subtract for Holes and Cutouts

Subtract Operation — Carving and cutting with subtract

Subtract is the most useful boolean for practical modeling.

Creating a Hole

To make a hole through an object:

Create your main shape (e.g., box)
Add a cylinder where you want the hole
Make cylinder penetrate both sides
Select box first, then cylinder
Click Subtract

Result: Box with cylindrical hole through it!

Selection Order

Critical for subtract:

First selected = Shape to keep
Second selected = Shape to cut away

Wrong order = wrong result!

Practical Examples

Drilled Holes

Box + Cylinder = Hole
For screws, cables, decoration

Cutouts

Box + smaller Box = Window/door cutout
For architecture, electronics cases

Carved Details

Base + detail shapes
For grooves, slots, recesses

Tips for Clean Subtracts

Tool should extend past surface

- Cylinder should poke out both sides - Avoids thin artifacts

Keep it simple

- One cut at a time - Easier to troubleshoot

Check from all angles

- Orbit to verify the cut - Look for unexpected results

Name your results

- "Block_With_Hole" - Helps track what's what

Common Uses in 3D Printing

Screw holes
Cable management holes
Interlocking joints
Lightening cuts (remove material)

Lesson 3 of 4 in Boolean Modeling