How do I create a curved, upward-sweeping edge on a petal-shaped tray?

[bmeunier]

Hi everyone!

I’m trying to model a lotus-flower-shaped tray (see reference image below) and I’m stuck on one specific detail — the curved, upward-sweeping edge on each petal section.

The best way I can describe it: imagine pulling the rim of a flat shape upward so it curves and lifts, like the edge of a flower petal curling slightly toward the sky. It’s not a simple chamfer or fillet … the edge itself has a graceful, organic upward curve to it.

Nothing quite gets me that smooth, lifted edge that follows the organic contour of the petal shape.

My questions:

1. What’s the best workflow in Shapr3D to achieve this kind of curved, uplifted edge?
2. Is there a specific tool or combination of tools (e.g., loft, sweep, shell, replace face) that handles this well?
3. Would it be easier to model the edge separately and merge it, rather than deriving it from the base shape?

Any tips, sketches, or video references would be hugely appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[TigerMike]

There are many ways and workflows to achieve the result you are looking for.

Here’s a simple approach using the Intersect tool.

[Oregonerd]

My work flow is a bit different than Mike’s.

I used the pattern tool and subtracted bits from a revolved dish. I projected lines to the top surface and moved them to add some dimension.

[Oregonerd]

A word of warning about projected lines. They differ from splines apparently. I intended to make vanes by sketching on a plane and using them as a path, but it would not work for me. You can create a plane at the end of a line, but it won’t work as a path apparently. At least not for me.

However it is early and I’m half way through my first cup… only one eye open.