sculpting a diamond braid mane
want to build your own diamond braid mane? this is how I did it!
started by blocking out the structure using simple tubes - just enough to map the direction and spacing of each braid strand.
this stage is all about getting the rhythm and crossover points right... each strand needs a consistent angle and taper so the weave reads correctly once it’s refined. i like to use a slightly thicker tube at the top, thinning toward the tassels, to try and display weight and tension
i went back and forth a few times on how many braids to add, and ended up duplicating one more to allow for bigger necks. you can always trim back but adding to it is a pita lol.
next step after this screenshot would be tightening the transitions, adding bands, using the inflate tool to puff out the middle of each strand, refining where strands tuck under each other, and adding surface texture to make it feel like real braided hair.
don't wanna sculpt it yourself? here's the pack https://www.cowsensenotincluded.com/.../manes-unique...
First Release: Micro Mini by Cowsense Not Included… Almost here!
Our mini lineup is just pending Canada Post strikes to resolve, then they will be ready to go! Right now, here is a sneak peak, and some details as to how this all works.
Limited First Run
Only 50 first-copy pieces will be available in this release. These are the cleanest, sharpest prints of the sculpt. After those are gone, a small handful of “seconds” may be listed in limited supply, but when they’re gone, they’re gone.
Ready to Ship
No waiting around! We don’t list until they’re already printed, checked and ready. Every piece in this drop is printed, inspected, and standing by to ship straight to you.
Quality Prints
Each micro mini is poured in a durable resin blend, chosen to give you a balance of strength and crisp detail. But keep in mind these are tiny works of art, and while durable for their scale, they’re still delicate little creatures. Handle them with the care they deserve.
Shipped with Care
Every micro mini will be sent out individually packed in its own plastic snap container, keeping it safe and secure on its journey from our ranch to your hands.
👉 Keep your eyes on the shop—once they’re listed, they won’t last long.
Welcome to Cowsense Not Included
Cowsense Not Included began with a simple idea: the horse world takes itself very seriously, and sometimes it deserves to be laughed at. Between the endless pedigree debates, the chrome obsession, and the parade of new training fads, there’s no shortage of material. So we set out to create something that blends humor, art, and western culture into a line of collectible digital sculpts and models that don’t take themselves too seriously.
What We Make
At the heart of Cowsense Not Included are STL files: digital models you can download and 3D print. With the current state of Canada Post, we are not launching our set of micros until they have been resolved.
Some pieces lean into realism, like a reiner caught mid-slide with a rider on top. Others lean into parody, like the “Quarter Horse, Literally” meme! The point isn’t just to create another model horse, it’s to create something memorable, collectable, and a little bit different from anything else out there.
Who It’s For
If you’re a model horse collector, painter, or hobbyist, these files give you access to unique sculpts you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re in the ranching or rodeo world, you’ll recognize the inside jokes and probably see a few familiar personalities in the designs. And if you’re just someone who appreciates good design with a sense of humor, you’ll find something to enjoy here too.
Looking Ahead
This is just the beginning. We’ll be rolling out new designs, expanding into collector drops of 50 per run, and offering licensing that allows resellers to print and sell physical versions of our work. Our goal is to build a library of collectible pieces that feel fresh, funny, and high-quality, while keeping the community accessible and welcoming.
So welcome to Cowsense Not Included. Stick around, and you’ll find a growing herd of ideas, sculpts, and satire — ready for anyone who loves western life but doesn’t mind poking fun at it too.
STL Licensing Agreement
As our community grows, so does the need to keep things clear, fair, and sustainable for everyone. That’s why we’re introducing an STL License Agreement. Don’t worry! It isn’t scary lawyer-speak. It’s simply a way to explain how you can (and can’t) use our STL files, whether you’re printing for yourself, selling physical models, or just collecting for fun.
Why Have a License?
Our STL files take a lot of time to design — every wrinkle, every muscle, every silly detail is sculpted bit by bit. A license helps us:
Protect our work from being copied, resold, or redistributed without credit.
Give you freedom to print and even sell physical models.
Keep the community fun and fair by making sure the files aren’t misused.
It’s not about gatekeeping, it’s about making sure the artist behind these models can keep creating more.
The Basics of the STL License
Here’s the breakdown, without the legal jargon:
✅ You can:
Print unlimited models for yourself.
Sell printed versions (as long as you credit Cowsense Not Included).
Modify files for your own printing use.
🚫 You can’t:
Resell or share the digital STL files.
Bundle the files into subscriptions, libraries, or downloads.
Claim them as your own work.
Use them for NFTs, blockchain projects, or AI training.
How to Credit Us
If you’re selling physical prints, please include “Cowsense Not Included” somewhere in your product listing or packaging.
Examples:
Online listing: “Model design by Cowsense Not Included”
Packaging: add a small credit line or sticker
We’re not asking for giant watermarks — just simple credit where it’s due.
What Happens If the License is Broken?
If someone breaks the terms (say, by reselling our STL files), the license is void and they’re no longer allowed to use them. Easy as that. It keeps things fair for the makers who respect the rules.
What This Means for You
For most of you — nothing new! You can print, paint, and even sell physical models made from our STL files. The license is just a safety net to protect both you as a customer and us as the creators.
It also means we can keep making new designs, knowing they’ll be respected. Think of it as the groundwork that lets our quirky little horse herd keep expanding.
Final Word
If you’re ever unsure about what’s allowed, just reach out — we’re always happy to help.
Now… back to sculpting the next ridiculous horse. 🐴✨