Introduction: Why Subdivision Surfaces Matter in 3D Modeling

In the world of 3D modeling, creating smooth, organic shapes while maintaining an efficient workflow is a constant challenge. Enter the Subdivision Surface modifier—one of Blender's most powerful tools that has revolutionized how artists approach complex geometry. Whether you're crafting characters, designing products, or creating architectural visualizations, understanding this modifier is essential for taking your 3D models to the next level.

Comparison between a low-poly and a high-poly Suzanne mesh in Blender using the Subdivision Surface Modifier (Catmull-Clark), shown in wireframe mode.

What Is the Subdivision Surface Modifier?

The Subdivision Surface modifier (often called "Subsurf" or "Subdiv" by seasoned Blender users) is a non-destructive tool that divides your mesh faces into smaller segments while simultaneously smoothing the surface. Think of it as a digital sculptor's best friend—it allows you to work with simple, manageable geometry while achieving professional-quality smooth surfaces.

The magic lies in its non-destructive nature. Unlike permanently subdividing your mesh, this modifier maintains your original low-poly structure, giving you the flexibility to make changes without dealing with thousands of vertices.

The Power of Non-Destructive Modeling

Working Smarter, Not Harder

Imagine trying to manually edit a mesh with millions of polygons—it would be a nightmare for both you and your computer. The Subdivision Surface modifier solves this elegantly by allowing you to:

• Model with low-poly geometry that's easy to manipulate
• Preview smooth results in real-time
• Adjust subdivision levels on the fly
• Maintain optimal performance during the modeling process

Applying the Subdivision Surface Modifier in Blender to a low-poly Suzanne mesh to create a smoother high-poly model

Blender Subdivision Surface Modifier panel with Catmull-Clark selected and advanced settings enabled, including Use Limit Surface and Use Creases

The Cage Concept

When you apply a Subdivision Surface modifier, your original mesh acts like a control cage. Each vertex, edge, and face influences the final smoothed result, similar to how control points define a curve. This relationship between the cage and the subdivided surface is what makes the modifier so intuitive and powerful.

Understanding Subdivision Algorithms

Catmull-Clark: The Smoothing Champion

The default Catmull-Clark algorithm is the heart of the modifier's smoothing capability. Developed by computer graphics pioneers Edwin Catmull and Jim Clark, this algorithm doesn't just split faces—it intelligently repositions vertices to create naturally flowing surfaces. The developers chose their formula based on aesthetic appeal rather than pure mathematics, resulting in surfaces that look organic and pleasing to the eye.

Simple Subdivision: When You Need Control

Sometimes you need more geometry without the smoothing effect. That's where Simple subdivision comes in. It splits faces uniformly without repositioning vertices, making it perfect for:

• Preparing meshes for displacement mapping
• Creating geometric patterns
• Maintaining sharp, angular designs
• Increasing resolution for specific technical requirements

Blender Subdivision Surface Modifier comparison: Simple vs Catmull-Clark applied to Suzanne monkey mesh with wireframe view

Essential Settings and Controls

Subdivision Levels: Balancing Quality and Performance

The modifier offers separate controls for viewport and render subdivision levels—a feature that's crucial for maintaining a smooth workflow:

Viewport Levels: Keep these lower (typically 1-2) for responsive modelingRender Levels: Set higher (3-6) for final quality output

Pro tip: Never set viewport levels higher than render levels—it wastes resources and can crash Blender on complex scenes.

Optimal Display: Streamlining Your Viewport

The Optimal Display option is a performance booster that shows only the original mesh edges, smoothed to match the subdivision result. While this speeds up viewport performance, many artists prefer seeing the actual subdivided geometry to better understand their model's final structure.

Blender Subdivision Surface Modifier: comparison of Optimal Display enabled vs disabled on a Suzanne monkey mesh in wireframe mode

Advanced Techniques for Professional Results

Edge Creasing: Selective Sharpness

One of the most powerful features of the Subdivision Surface modifier is the ability to maintain sharp edges where needed. By applying crease values to specific edges, you can:

• Keep architectural details crisp
• Define mechanical parts accurately
• Create natural transitions between organic and hard surfaces
• Add character details without excessive geometry

To apply creases, select edges and press Shift+E, then drag to adjust the crease strength. Values range from 0 (fully smooth) to 1 (completely sharp).

Blender Subdivision Surface Modifier: applying edge crease with Mean Crease value set to 1.0 on a cube to preserve sharp edges

UV Smoothing Options: Texturing Considerations

The modifier doesn't just affect geometry—it can also smooth UV coordinates. Understanding these options is crucial for proper texturing:

Smooth (Keep Corners): Best for organic models where texture flow mattersSharp: Ideal for architectural or mechanical objects with precise UV layouts

The choice depends on your texturing needs. Brick patterns, for example, often look better with Sharp UV smoothing to maintain their grid-like structure.

Topology Best Practices

The Importance of Edge Loops

Good topology is the foundation of effective subdivision surface modeling. Strategic edge loop placement allows you to:

• Control surface curvature precisely
• Define sharp transitions
• Maintain clean deformations for animation
• Optimize polygon distribution

A classic example is the subdivided cube—without proper edge loops, it becomes a sphere. Add strategic loops near the edges, and you maintain the cubic form while achieving smooth surfaces.

Blender modeling workflow: adding edge loops to a cube to control subdivision smoothing with the Subdivision Surface Modifier

Planning Your Mesh Structure

Before diving into modeling, consider:

• Where you need detail vs. smooth areas
• How the model will deform if animated
• The final subdivision level you'll use
• Performance constraints of your target platform

Common Pitfalls and Solutions

Normal Direction Issues

One frequent problem is inconsistent normal directions causing unexpected results. If parts of your mesh appear to subdivide differently:

1. Select all faces in Edit Mode
2. Press Shift+N to recalculate normals
3. Check for internal faces or non-manifold geometry

Performance Optimization

High subdivision levels can bring even powerful systems to their knees. Optimize by:

• Using appropriate viewport levels (usually 1-2)
• Applying modifiers only when necessary
• Considering the Multiresolution modifier for sculpting workflows
• Utilizing GPU subdivision when available

Workflow Integration Tips

Quick Application with Shortcuts

Blender provides convenient shortcuts for rapid subdivision:

• Ctrl+1: Add modifier with 1 viewport subdivision
• Ctrl+2: Add modifier with 2 viewport subdivisions
• And so on up to Ctrl+5

These shortcuts are perfect for quickly testing how subdivision affects your model.

Combining with Other Modifiers

The Subdivision Surface modifier works beautifully with:

• Mirror Modifier: Create symmetrical models efficiently
• Array Modifier: Build complex patterns with smooth transitions
• Solidify Modifier: Add thickness to subdivided surfaces

Remember: modifier stack order matters! Subdivision typically works best near the end of the stack.

Blender modifier stack demonstration: applying Bevel modifier before Subdivision Surface to control edge smoothness on a cube

Real-World Applications

Character Modeling

Subdivision surfaces are indispensable for creating organic characters. They allow artists to:

• Sculpt with low-poly base meshes
• Achieve smooth skin surfaces
• Add detail only where needed
• Maintain animation-friendly topology

Product Visualization

Industrial designers use subdivision surfaces to create sleek product designs with perfect curves and transitions. The ability to maintain sharp edges while smoothing others is particularly valuable here.

Architectural Visualization

Modern architecture often features flowing, organic forms. Subdivision surfaces help create these complex shapes while maintaining precise control over structural elements.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Subdivision

The Subdivision Surface modifier is more than just a smoothing tool—it's a fundamental component of modern 3D workflows. By understanding its capabilities and limitations, you can create professional-quality models efficiently and effectively.

Remember these key takeaways:

• Start with clean, well-planned topology
• Use edge creasing for selective sharpness
• Balance viewport and render subdivision levels
• Consider UV smoothing options for texturing
• Practice non-destructive modeling techniques

As you continue your Blender journey, the Subdivision Surface modifier will become an indispensable tool in your arsenal. Experiment with different settings, study professional models, and most importantly, practice applying these concepts to your own projects.

If you’re ready to enhance your own game or VR/AR projects, I invite you to explore additional optimized assets, including HDRi Maps, PBR Textures, and Game Props, on my Artstation Store or visit my official website at 3dskillup.art.

Stay tuned for more tips, insights, and resources designed to help you create stunning, game-ready 3D content.

Introduction: Why 3D Model Optimization Matters

Optimizing 3D models is crucial for delivering immersive gaming and VR/AR experiences. It goes beyond creating visually appealing graphics; it’s about striking the right balance between detail, performance, and fluid gameplay. Techniques such as low-poly modeling, physically-based rendering (PBR) textures, and normal map baking significantly improve loading speeds, rendering efficiency, and overall interactivity.

In this article, we’ll explore the optimization process using our American-Style Mailbox 3D Model as a practical example. You'll discover how strategic optimization can elevate the realism and responsiveness of your game projects.

Optimized 3D Model of an American Style Mailbox, Game Ready

Understanding Low-Poly Models: Performance Without Compromise

What Is a Low-Poly Model?

A low-poly model uses fewer polygons, reducing computational demands and improving game performance across various hardware specifications. The key advantage is delivering visual quality without compromising gameplay fluidity.

Benefits of Low-Poly Models in Gaming:

• Faster Loading Speeds: Less complexity means quicker loading, getting players into the game swiftly.

• Reduced Game Lag: Lower polygon counts mean less processing power required, resulting in smoother gameplay experiences.

Wireframe View of American Style Mailbox 3D Model - Illustrating Low-Poly Design

High-Poly to Low-Poly: Retaining Detail Through Normal Map Baking

Optimizing models involves transforming detailed, high-poly models into efficient low-poly counterparts without losing visual fidelity. The essential technique used here is normal map baking.

High-Poly to Low-Poly Modeling

This process recreates a detailed high-polygon model as a simplified low-polygon model. The goal is to retain critical details while drastically reducing polygon count.

The Magic of Normal Map Baking

Normal map baking captures intricate details from high-poly models into textures applied to low-poly versions, simulating depth without extra geometry. This technique ensures efficiency without sacrificing realism.

Matcap View of LowPoly American Style Mailbox 3D Model without Normal Map

Detailed View of LowPoly American Style Mailbox with Normal Map

Detailed Matcap View of LowPoly American Style Mailbox with Normal Map Applied

Case Study: Optimizing the American-Style Mailbox 3D Model

Let's explore step-by-step how we optimized our American-Style Mailbox:

Step 1: From High-Poly to Low-Poly

• Utilized non-destructive techniques (modifiers retained in the high-poly version).
• Created the low-poly version through careful retopology, significantly reducing polygon count.

Step 2: UV Unwrapping for Precise Texturing

• Performed meticulous UV mapping to flatten the 3D model accurately onto a 2D surface, essential for high-quality texturing.

UV map of American Style Mailbox model created in Blender for texture mapping process

The Importance of a Well-Done Unwrap

The unwrapping stage is essential because it lays the foundation for effective texturing. A well-done unwrap will produce a UV map that maximizes texture space, minimizes distortion, and takes into account the visual hierarchy of the model.

By carefully unwrapping our American Style Mailbox 3D Model, we ensured that the texture will accurately follow the shape and details of the model.In the following section, we will take a closer look at the next stage: baking the details onto our model through the use of a normal map. 

American Style Mailbox model with UVGrid Checker shown in Sketchfab interface

Step 3: Baking Details with Marmoset Toolbag

• Captured high-poly details effectively using Marmoset Toolbag’s advanced projection tools.
• Adjusted settings like offset, skew, and anti-aliasing to achieve optimal results.

American Style Mailbox model baking process visualized in Marmoset Toolbag interface

Step 4: Texturing with Substance Painter

• Leveraged Substance Painter’s powerful PBR workflow to create realistic materials.
• Added fine details such as rust, scratches, and paint wear to enhance realism.

MailBox 3D Model Rendering

Result: A High-Performance, Realistic, Game-Ready 3D Asset

The optimized American-Style Mailbox is more than visually appealing—it significantly boosts gameplay performance. It reduces loading times, prevents frame rate drops, and ensures smoother experiences even on less powerful hardware. Players can enjoy immersive gameplay free of technical distractions.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Game Projects with Optimized 3D Assets

Optimizing 3D models isn't just beneficial—it's essential. As games become increasingly detailed and immersive, the demand for efficient yet realistic assets grows exponentially. Through the example of my American-Style Mailbox 3D Model, you've seen firsthand how careful optimization techniques like low-poly modeling, baking, and PBR texturing can deliver exceptional visual quality without sacrificing performance.

If you’re ready to enhance your own game or VR/AR projects, I invite you to explore additional optimized assets, including HDRi Maps, PBR Textures, and Game Props, on my Artstation Store or visit my official website at 3dskillup.art.

Stay tuned for more tips, insights, and resources designed to help you create stunning, game-ready 3D content.

Introduction: The Rise of Cyberpunk Character Art

Cyberpunk character art has become a defining visual style in contemporary video game design. Originating in the 1980s, Cyberpunk portrays futuristic dystopian worlds dominated by technology, neon aesthetics, and edgy fashion. Today, this genre extends beyond mere visuals, becoming a storytelling medium that explores themes like dystopia, transhumanism, and socio-economic disparity.

This guide offers game developers, 3D artists, and gaming enthusiasts practical insights into creating authentic and captivating cyberpunk characters.

Artwork by Grzegorz Chojnacki - Principal Character Artist @ CD Projekt Red

Key Elements of a Cyberpunk Character

1. Futuristic Setting

Cyberpunk characters inhabit technologically advanced, neon-lit urban landscapes. The environment heavily influences their appearance, reflected through attire, gear, and cybernetic enhancements.

2. High-Tech Augmentations

Common features include mechanical limbs, neural implants, and cybernetic eyes—symbols of humanity’s fusion with technology, embodying transhumanist ideals.

3. Distinctive Fashion

Fashion combines punk, gothic, streetwear, and Japanese influences, featuring leather, neon highlights, metallic accessories, vibrant hair colors, and intricate tattoos.

4. Social Commentary

Cyberpunk characters represent deeper social themes, including corporate control, loss of privacy, wealth disparity, and societal decay.

5. Anti-Hero Archetypes

Characters often exist on society’s margins, challenging oppressive systems. These flawed, morally complex figures make compelling protagonists.

Artwork By Abrar Khan

Why Cyberpunk Character Art Matters

Cyberpunk character art significantly contributes to a game’s atmosphere, narrative depth, thematic exploration, and player engagement:

• Atmospheric Depth: Detailed designs immerse players, using visual cues to depict the world’s socio-economic context.
• Narrative Drive: Characters visually communicate their roles, backstories, and motivations, directly influencing plot development.
• Thematic Representation: Character art conveys cyberpunk’s core themes, effectively representing technological and societal struggles.
• Player Engagement: Unique, relatable designs foster emotional connections and enhance the gaming experience.

Artwork by Lea Leonowicz

Creating a Unique Cyberpunk Character: Tips and Techniques

1. Develop a Strong Concept

Define your character’s story, role, motivations, and personality clearly before starting the visual design.

2. Embrace Cyberpunk Aesthetics

Utilize futuristic clothing, augmentations, and neon colors creatively, avoiding clichés and emphasizing originality.

3. Visual Storytelling

Every design element should narrate the character’s story—whether it's scars, tattoos, or augmentations indicating past experiences or affiliations.

4. Balance Tradition and Innovation

Maintain recognizable cyberpunk elements while innovating to create fresh, distinctive designs.

5. Iterative Design

Continually refine your design through sketches, feedback, and 3D modeling software for optimal results.

Artwork by Hirokazu Yokohara

Examples of Excellent Cyberpunk Character Art

1 - V from "Cyberpunk 2077"

First Sketches of V Male Character - Artwork by Lea Leonowicz

Arguably the most well-known cyberpunk character in recent years, V is the player’s avatar in CD Projekt Red’s massive RPG. Players can customize V’s appearance extensively, including cybernetic enhancements, tattoos, clothing, and hairstyle. Despite the varied designs, V retains a distinctly cyberpunk aesthetic, embodying the genre’s fusion of high-tech and low-life.

2 - Adam Jensen from "Deus Ex: Human Revolution"

Adam Jensen - Artwork by Laura Gallagher

Adam Jensen is a standout example of cyberpunk character art, featuring biomechanical augmentations that make him more machine than man. His distinctive sunglasses and trench coat have become iconic within the genre, and his design reflects his character’s struggle with his own humanity.

3 - Major Motoko Kusanagi from "Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex - First Assault Online"

Based on the anime and manga series, Major Motoko Kusanagi’s character design in the game successfully captures the cyberpunk aesthetic. Her design features a full-body prosthetic, which is both sleek and functional, reflecting the world’s advanced technology.

4  - Royce from "Cyberpunk 2077"

Royce - Artwork by Marcin Klicki

Royce, the leader of the Maelstrom gang, is another example of compelling cyberpunk character design. His body is heavily modified with cybernetics to the point where he’s barely recognizable as human – a commentary on the extremes of augmentation in the genre.

5 - Johnny Silverhand from "Cyberpunk 2077"

Johnny Silverhand - Artwork by Marcin Blaszczak

Played by Keanu Reeves, Johnny Silverhand is a digital ghost and former rockstar. His design, complete with a robotic arm and rockstar attire, embodies the punk aspect of the genre.

6 - Sam Porter Bridges from "Death Stranding"

Sam Porter Bridges -  Artwork by Bruno zorzi

While not strictly a cyberpunk game, “Death Stranding” incorporates many cyberpunk aesthetics. Sam Porter Bridges, played by Norman Reedus, is a courier in a post-apocalyptic world. His character design, particularly his high-tech equipment and clothing, carries a strong cyberpunk vibe.

These examples highlight the versatility and creativity in cyberpunk character art, demonstrating how designers can use technology, fashion, and personal history to craft unique and memorable characters.

Techniques for Creating Cyberpunk Character Art

• Concept Sketching: Rough sketches exploring diverse design possibilities.
• 3D Modeling: Utilize software like ZBrush, Maya, or Blender to craft detailed cybernetic enhancements and attire.
• Texturing and Shading: Apply realistic materials using Substance Painter to achieve authentic cyberpunk aesthetics.
• Rigging and Animation: Create realistic movement, particularly challenging with augmented cybernetic bodies.
• Lighting and Rendering: Employ engines like Unreal, Unity, Arnold, or V-Ray for atmospheric visuals emphasizing neon lighting and reflections.

Artwork by Sam Leung

Artwork by Dylan Kowalski

Learning Resources for Cyberpunk Character Art

Books

• “The Art of Cyberpunk 2077”: This official book gives a deep insight into the process of creating the unique art of the widely acclaimed game, “Cyberpunk 2077”. It’s an invaluable resource for understanding the intricate details involved in cyberpunk character design.
• “Beginner’s Guide to Digital Painting in Photoshop: Sci-fi and Fantasy”: While not cyberpunk-specific, this book covers key digital art skills that can be applied to the genre.         

Online Tutorials

• ArtStation Learning: Many professional artists share process breakdowns and tutorials on this platform. For instance, you can find specific cyberpunk-themed character art tutorials.
• YouTube: Channels like FZD School of Design or Sketchy Trav, often share useful tips and tutorials applicable to cyberpunk art.

Online Courses

• Udemy hosts a wide range of digital art courses, including “Character Art School: Complete Character Drawing” which provides a solid foundation for creating characters in any style.
• Domestika: For learn a simple approach to drawing memorable characters, you might check out “Introduction to Design of Characters for Animation and Video Games“.

Forums and Communities                        

• Reddit: Subreddits like r/learnart and r/cyberpunk offer plenty of advice and feedback opportunities for emerging artists.
• Discord: Many art-related servers exist where you can interact with like-minded artists, share your work, and get critiques.  

Learn Software

• Learn software like ZBrush, Substance Painter, or Blender. They often offer in-depth tutorials on their official websites.                                        

Remember, mastering cyberpunk character art takes time and practice, but with these resources at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to dive into this exciting genre.        

Conclusion: Embrace the Art of Cyberpunk

Cyberpunk character art is a dynamic and powerful form of creative expression, merging visual aesthetics, storytelling depth, and thematic complexity. Understanding and implementing the key aspects outlined here can significantly elevate your artwork and enhance player engagement.

Explore more inspiring examples and high-quality assets, including HDRi Maps, PBR Textures, and Game Props, by visiting my Artstation Store or my official website at 3dskillup.art.

Embark on your creative journey, and craft compelling cyberpunk characters that resonate with audiences and enrich your gaming worlds!

Introduction

3D modeling is an art form that demands patience, precision, and creativity. To achieve a top-notch 3D model, it's essential to follow various stages, one of the most important being the blocking out process.

Discover the value of blocking out, also known as blockmesh or graybox, in the realm of 3D modeling. This technique involves crafting a three-dimensional rough draft of the object or scene to be modeled. By constructing a basic structure using simple geometric shapes and bypassing intricate details or advanced graphic elements, you can focus on the foundational aspects of your project.

Why is blocking out a critical step in 3D modeling? The key reason is that it offers an overarching view of the object or scene, allowing you to concentrate on the general shape and evaluate the effectiveness of your idea without getting bogged down in the details.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into using Blender software to master the blocking out process for creating exceptional 3D objects. Are you prepared to elevate your 3D modeling skills?

Unlock the Power of Blender for Blocking Out in 3D Modeling

Blender is a robust 3D modeling software that excels in blocking out techniques. Its main advantage lies in being a free and open-source platform, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of budget. Blender's user-friendly interface ensures a smooth learning curve, even for novices.

Equipped with an extensive array of features, Blender offers versatile tools for blocking out, such as primitives, modeling, and sculpting capabilities. Its modular kit system enables users to swiftly connect pre-made components, akin to Lego blocks, streamlining the blocking out process.

Leveraging Blender's robust community and extensive resources is another significant benefit of using the software for blocking out in 3D modeling. With countless tutorials, forums, and user-generated content available, finding support and inspiration becomes an effortless endeavor, facilitating the learning and creation process.

In summary, Blender is a powerful and versatile software tailored for blocking out in 3D modeling. Its free, open-source nature makes it an ideal choice for creators at any level.

Master Blocking Out in Blender: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide to Streamline Your 3D Modeling Process

A fundamental aspect of 3D modeling is the blocking out phase, which entails crafting simple shapes to form the foundation of the model. Blender simplifies blocking out by utilizing primitive shapes, reference images, and scale figures.

Begin by constructing basic shapes that correspond to your model. For example, in the case of a sci-fi rifle 3D model, the entire silhouette was formed using uncomplicated shapes, suitable primitives, and scaling and moving against the background reference. This initial step provides an understanding of the accurate proportions and scale for each component. Introduce a 3D mannequin model to compare measurements or adjust them based on the real-world dimensions, if available.

After completing the rudimentary blocking out, progress to subsequent stages, gradually incorporating more detail. Ultimately, reach the highest level of refinement, where you can apply modifiers such as Boolean for detailing, and subdivision surface and bevel for a realistic appearance.

While initiating the blocking out process, consider which primitive best represents each component—a cube, cylinder, or sphere? This assessment will guide the modeling and blocking out stages.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can efficiently create a precise 3D model in Blender that embodies your intended design

Unlock the Potential of Blocking Out in 3D Modeling with Blender: Streamline Your Workflow for Accurate and Aesthetic Results

In conclusion, blocking out serves as a crucial step in 3D modeling, enabling you to test basic shapes before incorporating more intricate details. This method ensures proportion accuracy and optimizes both aesthetic and functional aspects of the model. Blender is an exceptionally powerful tool for executing blocking out, owing to its extensive features and user-friendly design.

With perseverance and practice, Blender allows you to craft detailed and well-structured 3D models, even when starting from elementary shapes. If you're new to 3D modeling or seeking a more efficient approach to your projects, mastering blocking out in Blender could be the perfect solution for you.

Thanks to Eldar Safin for the concept in the background.

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Introduction    

Hey there, 3D enthusiasts! Today, we're excited to introduce you to an incredibly useful tool in the world of 3D creation: PureRef. If you haven't yet discovered the magic of PureRef, fear not! We'll dive into the ins and outs of this fantastic software, revealing how it can streamline your daily 3D work process.

PureRef is an indispensable, free application designed for organizing, managing, and displaying your reference images within a single, user-friendly workspace. For 3D artists, designers, and illustrators, reference images are key to accurately rendering objects, environments, and characters. However, juggling multiple images can lead to chaos and frustration.

Enter PureRef, the ultimate solution for maintaining an orderly and efficient reference image library. With its intuitive interface and extensive features, PureRef keeps your digital workspace clutter-free, ensuring a seamless workflow. Best of all, PureRef is perfect for everyone, from 3D novices to seasoned pros.

Why Choose PureRef?

a. Advantages of PureRef: Streamlining Your Reference Image Workflow

When it comes to organizing and managing reference images, PureRef stands out among other software options. Its user-friendly interface enables easy image arrangement, resizing, and opacity adjustment with just a few clicks. This streamlined process saves artists and designers time and frustration compared to using traditional image viewers or design programs not specifically tailored for reference management.

b. Key Features and Flexibility: Enhance Your Creativity with PureRef's Powerful Capabilities

PureRef boasts an array of features that make it the go-to choice for reference image organization. Some of its key features include:

• Infinite canvas for arranging images in any layout
• Drag-and-drop functionality for effortless image import
• Customizable keyboard shortcuts to accelerate your workflow
• Compatibility with various image formats, such as JPEG, PNG, GIF, and more
• The ability to create and save multiple boards for distinct projects
• Image cropping and rotation tools for precise adjustments
• Support for high-resolution images without compromising quality
• Always-on-top mode, keeping reference images visible while working in other applications
• Cross-platform compatibility, available for Windows, macOS, and Linux

c. A Free and Lightweight Software: The Ideal Solution for Artists and Designers

One of the most appealing aspects of PureRef is that it's entirely free to use. This makes it an accessible tool for artists and designers of all levels, from hobbyists to professionals. Moreover, PureRef is lightweight and doesn't demand high system resources to run smoothly. This ensures that it won't slow down your computer or interfere with other programs, allowing you to maintain an efficient and productive workflow.

How to Begin with PureRef

Embarking on your PureRef journey is quick and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to download and install this reference management software:

1. Access the official PureRef website: Head to PureRef website in your web browser to reach the official PureRef site.

2. Obtain the software: Click the "Download" button on the homepage, leading you to the download page. Select the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). After making your choice, click "Download" again to initiate the process.

3. Extract files for Windows and Linux users: If using Windows or Linux, extract the downloaded .zip file. Right-click the file and select "Extract All" or employ your preferred extraction software to move the contents to your chosen folder.

4. Install the software for macOS users: For macOS users, open the downloaded .dmg file and follow on-screen instructions to drag the PureRef application into your Applications folder.

5. Launch PureRef: Open the extracted folder (Windows and Linux) or Applications folder (macOS) and double-click the PureRef application icon. The program will present a blank canvas where you can begin organizing your reference images.

Having successfully downloaded and installed PureRef, you're now ready to utilize this powerful tool to elevate your creative workflow.

Creating Your First Canvas with PureRef - A Beginner's Guide

Now that you've got PureRef installed, it's time to create your first canvas and discover its potential for organizing your reference images effectively. Follow these easy steps to get started:

1. Launch PureRef: If you haven't already, open PureRef by double-clicking the application icon. You'll be greeted with a blank canvas, ready for your reference images.

2. Import images: There are several methods to add images to your canvas:

   a. Drag-and-drop: The simplest way is to drag-and-drop images from your computer directly onto the canvas.

   b. Use the 'Load Images' function: Right click in the canvas and select 'Load -> Load Images.' Then, navigate to the desired image(s) on your computer and click 'Open' again to import them.

   c. Copy and paste: Copy an image (or its URL) from another application, like a web browser, and paste it directly onto the canvas by pressing 'Ctrl+V' (Windows and Linux) or 'Cmd+V' (macOS).

3. Arrange images: Click and drag images to position them on your canvas. PureRef's infinite canvas allows you to organize images in any layout you prefer. To resize an image, click and drag its corners. You can also rotate images by selecting them at the corners.

4. Adjust image opacity: Drag while holding down the left mouse button along with Ctrl+Alt+Shift to increase or decrease opacity

5. Save your canvas: To save your canvas and its current layout, right click  and select 'Save -> Save As.' Choose a location on your computer and give your canvas a name. This will create a .pur file, which can be opened later to continue working on your project.

With these steps, you'll have successfully created your first canvas in PureRef. As you become more familiar with the software, you'll unlock its full potential and streamline your creative workflow.

Organizing and Manipulating Images in PureRef

Once you've created your first canvas and imported your reference images, it's crucial to learn how to organize and manipulate them effectively. In this section, we'll cover practical tips and tricks to help you optimize your PureRef experience:

1. Aligning images: Align multiple images by selecting them, right-clicking, and choosing 'Images -> Align.' Align Left, Right, Top, Bottom etc.

2. Locking canvas: Prevent accidental movement or resizing by locking canvas. Right-click the canvas and activate 'Canvas -> Lock Canvas.' To unlock, right-click again and deactivate 'Canvas -> Lock Canvas' (Shortcut CTRL+R).

3. Optimizing Your Canvas: PureRef's 'Canvas > Optimize' function enables you to maximize your workspace and improve your overall organization. This feature automatically arranges your reference images, eliminating any empty spaces and ensuring an efficient layout

4. Display Modes: PureRef offers several display modes to customize your working experience. These modes allow you to control how your reference images are displayed in relation to other applications on your computer such as 'Always Top', 'Always Bottom' etc

5. Layering images: Arrange images in layers by right-clicking, hovering over 'Layer,' and selecting 'Bring to Front,' 'Send to Back,' 'Bring Forward,' or 'Send Backward.'

6. Navigating the canvas: Move around your canvas by clicking and dragging with the middle mouse button. Zoom in or out by scrolling the mouse wheel.

7. Customizing keyboard shortcuts: Streamline common tasks by customizing keyboard shortcuts in PureRef. Right Click and go to 'Settings', select 'Key Bindings' tab and edit shortcuts according to your preferences.

By mastering these techniques, you'll efficiently organize and manipulate your reference images, boosting your creative process and productivity with PureRef.

In Conclusion

PureRef is an indispensable tool for artists, designers, and creatives who rely on reference images in their projects. Its user-friendly interface, multitude of features, and customizable options make it the top choice for organizing and managing reference images efficiently. With its free availability and lightweight design, PureRef is accessible to both professionals and hobbyists.

From downloading and installing the software to creating your first canvas and optimizing your workspace, getting started with PureRef is seamless. The various display modes, such as Always on Top and Transparent, enable you to tailor your experience and enhance your overall productivity.

Incorporating PureRef into your daily workflow can save you time, minimize frustration, and help you maintain a clean and organized workspace. Give it a try and discover how PureRef can elevate your creative process to new heights with this powerful reference image management tool.

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The Making of the Hot Dog Cart: Introduction

Discover the secrets of my latest 3D Hot Dog Cart model, optimized for both Unity and Unreal game engines. This model was created with a low polygon count in mind and I also added LODs for even better optimization. With 7 unique texture sets, each with its own UV space, the textures are amazing and the resolution is top-notch.

The components are separated for easy rigging and animation. The tools I used were: Blender for modeling and unwrapping, with the help of HardOps, BoxCutter, and MeshMachine 3D addons. Marmoset Toolbag was used for baking, and Substance 3D Painter for texturing.    

From Inspiration to Reality: The Concept Design of My 3D Hot Dog Cart

I’m always on the lookout for inspiration when it comes to creating game props. I take screenshots while exploring open world games and save them in a folder for later. Another great source of inspiration is checking out the talented artists on Artstation. For my hot dog cart concept, I was inspired by a similar cart in GTAV. As a street food fan, I couldn’t resist the temptation to bring my own version to life. 

To gather references, I did some research by searching for images and 360-degree views of hot dog carts using Sketchfab. I also watched videos on YouTube to gather more information about the various components and features of hot dog carts. I wanted my design to be as realistic as possible, so all of this information was invaluable.

I kept all of my references organized using PureRef, a fantastic tool for collecting references. I had it open in a small window on the bottom right of my screen for easy access. Here are some of the images I used as reference.      

From Blocking Out to Highpoly: The Journey of a 3D Hot Dog Cart Model

The blocking out phase is a crucial step in the 3D modeling process. This involves creating simple shapes to assess the proportions and silhouette of the model. If you have good references, such as front, side, and top images, you can start modeling directly in the 3D viewport. But if you don’t have any references, the blocking out phase becomes even more important. 

In my case, I had a silhouette available for my hot dog cart model, so I was able to start modeling right away. Personally, I like to start with some details, such as bevels and subdivisions, to get a sense of satisfaction and see if I’m on the right track. That’s why I started with a highpoly model.        

Overcoming Challenges in 3D Modeling: The Hot Dog Cart Edition

When it comes to modeling new game props, I always think about how I can utilize my hard surface modeling skills and techniques. My goal is to have a clean and organized topology, despite using booleans, the subdivision surfaces modifier, and bevels and chamfers. I also enjoy using the remesh workflow for creating high poly models. I carefully consider my approach for each component I model. 

One common challenge in hard surface modeling is cleaning up the topology after boolean operations. Fortunately, addons such as HarOps, BoxCutter, and MeshTool can greatly help speed up the process. I like to model based on references, tracing the profile and building the mesh, manipulating vertices and using my favorite modifiers. This technique helps to achieve a result that is faithful to the original and therefore more realistic. 

Another challenge is maintaining accurate scale, proportions, and thicknesses in 3D objects. To overcome this, I always compare my models to a reference character that is approximately 180cm tall or look for exact measurements of the real object when available.    

Unwrapping and Baking

When it comes to unwrapping and creating UV maps, I used Blender. I created 7 texture sets for 7 materials to maximize texture resolution. During the unwrapping phase, I used the ZenUV and UVPackmaster add-ons that provide fantastic functions to properly unwrap the mesh. UV unwrapping can be a time-consuming process, but fortunately, there are some great addons that can help you speed it up and improve the quality of your UV maps. One such addon is UVZen, which offers a range of helpful functions, including a tool for calculating Texel Density. This allows you to distribute texture resolution evenly across all mesh components, ensuring that your textures look great on every part of your model. Additionally, UVZen makes it easy to straighten UV shells and together with UV Packmaster offers many other useful functions that can help you get the most out of your UV maps. By using these addons, you can streamline your workflow and create better unwrapping and 3D models in less time.

After finishing the Unwrapping and material assignment phase, I exported the highpoly and lowpoly fbx files and then used Marmoset Toolbag for baking. I cannot stress enough how fantastic this software is, it has an intuitive interface and allowed me to make photorealistic renderings, texturing, animations, and much more! 

Marmoset Toolbag’s sophisticated baking system made the process even easier and more precise by allowing me to correct artifacts in real-time and make operations on the cage such as adjusting the offset or the skew map. Working with advanced and high-quality tools is always a pleasure! Additionally, starting from version 8.3 of Substance 3D Painter, the baking system has been reviewed and significantly improved.

Texturing

Texture creation is all about organization and attention to detail. I’ve learned a lot from observing talented artists on Artstation and their tutorials, which I’ll share at the end of this article with links to their profiles. I focus on one piece at a time during texturing, but I also know that starting with a basic material for all components of the object and gradually adding more detail can be an interesting approach. This is a similar logic to what’s often used in modeling and sculpting. 

To keep my layers organized in Substance Painter, I divide them into folders and give them logical names. I begin with a base material and then add variations in roughness and color as needed. I also use generators or smart masks to add effects such as dirt, scratches, etc. I love combining these generators with the curvature map or ambient occlusion to create interesting effects on the edges of objects or in cavities. 

Texturing is a process that requires attention to detail and organization. It’s important to have a good collection of references for the different materials, to look at every detail, and to try to recreate what works best for our project. During the texturing phase of the hot dog cart, I discovered a very interesting filter in Substance 3D Painter to recreate the water droplets on the hot dog cart sink. It’s called MatFX Water Drops and it really helped me add that extra touch to my model.       

Optimizing the 3D Hot Dog Cart Model through Levels of Detail (LOD)

After completing the texturing, I exported the PBR maps for Unity and Unreal using the Substance 3D Painter configuration. Then, I created the Levels of Detail (LOD) using Blender and exported them as fbx files. LODs are versions of the original model with a reduced number of polyggon, which are loaded based on the distance from the camera. I used the Blender decimate modifier to create the LODs. 

For the subsequent LODs, in addition to decimation, I also eliminated components that wouldn’t be visible from far away. Finally, I loaded textures at different resolutions for each LOD, for example, LOD0 in 4K, LOD1 in 2K, LOD2 in 1K, etc. 

Optimizing your 3D model is like giving your game a power-up! It helps ensure a smooth and speedy gaming experience, especially on devices with limited processing power like mobile phones or lower-end PCs.Creating Levels of Detail (LODs) is a super smart move when it comes to optimizing your 3D models. Think of it like having different versions of your model, each with fewer polyggon details. This means the GPU can process them more easily and efficiently. And, when the camera moves away from the model, the LOD with fewer details will be loaded, saving resources and helping your game run even smoother. 

Textures are another important piece of the optimization puzzle. By loading lower resolution textures for LODs, you can lighten the load on the GPU and improve performance.By doing all of this, you’ll be giving your hardware a break and reducing the number of drawcalls required. The result? A more fluid and enjoyable gaming experience for you and your players.       

Conclusion

Once the optimization was complete, I published the model on major 3D model marketplaces such as the Unity Asset Store, CGTrader, BlenderMarket, Artstation Marketplace, FlippedNormals, so game developers and 3d artists can purchase and use it in their projects. Additionally, I published a timelapse video on my YouTube channel showing the creation of the 3D model and its texturing. 

I am very grateful to the supportive community that provided valuable feedback during the development process. I want to invite everyone to try the 3D Hot Dog Cart model in their game projects and provide me with their feedback, so I can continue to improve and perfect my 3D models. Thank you for reading this article, and I hope to have inspired you to create increasingly beautiful and functional 3D models.

Special Thanks to

🔥 Paula Sánchez-Ferrero for her awesome course on Domestika

🔥 Blender Italia, the community where my journey into the world of Blender and 3d computer graphics started 

🙂 And many other people who every day teach me something new                                        

Here are some great channels to follow and resources

🔥 Old Chair Full Creation Process (by Andrew Averkin) – (affiliate link) 

🔥 Learn HardOps and BoxCutter (by BlenderBros) (affiliate link)

Stay updated and Follow 3DSkillUp on:

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👉 Original article published on 3DSkillUp Website            

In this article we will see how to create LODs with Blender and use them with Unity. LOD stands for Level Of Detail and is an optimization technique to reduce hardware workload by reducing the number of polygons of the meshes that are distant from the camera.

When an object is far from the camera, details will not be seen, but if LODs are not used, the GPU will still calculate the number of polygons in the distant mesh thus leading to unnecessary workload and impacting the performance of the scene. But thanks to the LODs technique the polygons will be reduced so that optimal performance will be achieved in real-time rendering.

By name convention you assign LOD0 to the original mesh and then increase the number by reducing the geometry.

Let’s create LODs with Blender!

We can create LODs by reducing the geometry manually or through the use of a modifier, in this case Blender’s Decimate modifier. It’s useful to reduce geometry manually when we need to maintain a clean topology, such as for characters, organic shapes or anything that needs to be deformed or animated. Instead, for static objects, like game props, we can make use of decimation modifiers. 

✔️ To create LOD1 we make a copy of LOD0 with Shift+D

✔️ We add the Decimate modifier and set the ratio value to 0.6

✔️ We add the Weighted Normal modifier if shading artifacts occur 

Then we repeat the same process for LOD2 and LOD3. We duplicate LOD0 and create LOD2 by add the decimate modifier with ratio 0.4 and LOD3 with the decimate modifier and ratio 0.15

How to use LODs with Unity               

At this point you can export to FBX format our LODs and use them with Unity.               

We organize the Unity project with all the necessary folders. In particular, the Textures, Meshes (containing the imported LODs in fbx format), Materials folder and Prefabs folder were created. 

The textures folder contains the textures with the 4K, 2K, 1k and 512 dimensions that will be used with the LODs. The LOD0 will have the material with 4K textures loaded, the LOD1 at 2K and so on. 

✔️ We move LOD0, LOD1, LOD2 and LOD3 to the hierarchy panel of Unity.

✔️ Then we select LOD0 from the hierarchy and add a LOD Group component from the Inspector panel.

✔️ Now we have to select the respective slots named LOD0, LOD1 etc. (to add a new slot right-click on them and Insert Before) click on the add button and add the corresponding LODs present in the hierarchy we created with Blender.

We can then drag our lod0 into the prefabs folder to create a prefab that we can easily reuse in the scene with the loaded LOD Group. 

In this article we looked at How to create LODs with Blender and use them with Unity

So that’s it as far as creating LODs with Blender is concerned. Stay tuned for new posts!

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Video Youtube (Audio in Italian with English subtitles)

Blender Selection Tools

In this article we will look at Blender Selection Tools and learn how to select and deselect objects in the 3D viewport

In the left toolbar (keypad N) you can select the Select and Activate Items button. If we hold down this button it will be possible to choose different modes of selecting objects, including Select Box, Select Circle, Select Lasso. To select objects in Blender’s 3D Viewport we will just left-click on them. 

Selection of all 3D objects 

Pressing Shift+Left mouse button will allow multiple selection of objects. We can select all the objects in the scene at once by pressing the A key, and with the Alt+A key it will be possible to deselect them. We can also press A twice fast enough to deselect. 

It’s possible to select some 3D objects in the viewport and then reverse the selection with Ctrl+i.

Box, Circle and Lasso Select

By activating box selection, you will be able to create a selection box by dragging the left mouse button, and everything inside that box will be selected. We can create a multiple selection with the selection box by holding down the Shift key. Instead, it’s possible to deselect by pressing Ctrl.

It’s possible to call up the select box more quickly with the shortcut b. When we use shortcut b for the selection box it will be possible to deselect 3d objects by holding down the middle mouse button. 

Then we have the circle selection mode, which can be invoked with the shortcut c. We can enlarge the radius of the circle by simply scrolling with the mouse wheel. It will be possible to deselect by holding down the middle mouse button. 

And finally we have the select lasso. This will create a select lasso by holding down the left mouse button and dragging. With the select lasso we can create multiple selections of 3D objects by pressing Shift and deselect by pressing Ctrl. 

Blender selection tools – Some tips for selection in edit mode

The selection methods we have seen so far in object mode also apply to in edit mode to select vertices, edges, and faces. 

And here are some suggestions for selection in edit mode. You can select an entire loop by pressing Alt+Left mouse button.

If we need to select a contiguous area, instead of selecting individual faces with Shift, we can select them in one go. By selecting the first face and then the last one while holding Ctrl. 

To select faces alternately more quickly, we can select the first face then the second and then press Ctrl+Shift+ the + key on the numpad.

In this article we took a look at the Blender Selection Tools

So that’s it as far as Blender Selection Tools are concerned. In future articles we will look at some advanced selection techniques, so stay tuned!

You can follow me on 🔥 Artstation and 🔥 Artstation Marketplace

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Video Youtube (Audio in Italian with English subtitles)

Modeling a Banjo with Blender (full process timelapse)

Hello friends of Artstation. Today I am sharing with you my entire timelapse workflow of creating a game asset with Blender, marmoset Toolbag and Substance 3D Painter.

✔️ I start the high poly modeling and create the 3D lowpoly model of the Banjo with Blender. 

✔️ Then the unwrapping phase with and then the baking of the normal map, ambient occlusion and curvature with Marmoset. 

✔️Finally how to texturing with Substance Painter the Banjo, this ancient musical instrument of African origin. 

🎮 This process is what I usually use to create a Game Asset, with an additional step that is the creation of the LODs.  So get comfortable, brew a refreshing tea (or even a cool Mojito 🍹 if you prefer) and enjoy the whole process.  

🖥️ Software Used: 

✔️ Blender 

✔️ Marmoset Toolbag

✔️ Substance 3D Painter

🍷 Create a Realistic Wine Glass with Blender!

Hi ArtStation dudes! I'm Francesco Saviano from 3D Skill Up. Today we're going to see how to create a realistic wine glass with Blender.

Almost everything around us in real life can be traced back to simpler, more primitive shapes like cubes, cylinders, spheres, etc. With this principle in mind we can begin to model starting from simple shapes and then arrive at increasingly complex and detailed forms. This phase is known as blockout.

🖼️Let's start with a reference

Although in this case a glass is a very simple shape, it is always a good idea to start modeling with a reference image in the background or in front of us. In this way we won't have problems with proportions and our 3d models will be more realistic.

In Blender we insert an image in the background adding it from the menu add -> image -> reference (shift+a shortcut)

Let's start modeling the wine glass!

Once we have inserted the image in the background we can start modeling the wine glass. We start with a cylinder, enter edit mode (tab key to switch from edit mode to object mode) scale on z, place it at the base and then extrude and scale following the profile of the glass in the image. We then remove the top face.

Let's add modifiers!

At this point we can add the modifiers:
✔️Solidify
✔️Subdivision Surface

Solidify will give thickness to the wine glass while subdivision surface will give it a better shape by subdividing the mesh..
Remember to apply the shade smooth in object mode by clicking with the right mouse button -> shade smooth.

We then place some edge loops (ctrl+r) to give the appropriate shape to the glass.

Then let's create the liquid part for the wine.

We must apply the Solidify modifier, in the modifiers stack select it and use the shortcut Ctrl+a to apply it

To create the liquid part that will represent our wine, we select in edit mode the inside of the glass up to a certain height, duplicate the selection and separate it creating a new piece.

In Edit Mode, once selected the faces we are interested in, we duplicate them with Shift+D and then separate them pressing p->Separate Selection

Now let's recalculate the liquid normals. Just select the whole piece in edit mode by pressing the a key (select all). Then press alt+n to open the Normals menu and recalculate the normals.

🔥 It's time to create your glass and wine materials!

Glass Material

To create the glass we will use the PBR Principled BSDF shader of Blender, in this way we will have a physically correct material. Let's move to the Shading workspace, select the glass in Object Mode and create a new material. I called it mat_glass.

In the Principled BSDF Node we set:

✔️ Transmission to 1

✔️  Roughness to 0 

✔️ Base Color to pure white.

In Blender Properties, in the World Properties tab, load an HDRi by selecting in Color->Environment Texture. Also remember to change the rendering engine from Eevee to Cycles if it is not already set.

Wine Material

In the same way we create the wine material. Select the mesh in object mode and assign a new material mat_wine. As for glass we set transmission value to 1 and roughness to 0. For this liquid we will additionally use the:

✔️ Principled Volume node

necessary because otherwise the liquid would look too clear and clean. Instead it needs some consistency, some depth. 

Then we insert the Principled Volume node from the Shader Editor pressing Shift+A then Shader->Principled Volume. We increase the density and change the color absorption. In this way we will absorb part of the light as it passes through the volume, creating a more "dense" liquid. And that's what we were looking for!

💡 Let's set the lighting and launch the rendering!

We insert a floor and a camera and use the three-point lighting type. We add a key light shifted to the left about 45° from the camera. We add a fill light to the right at 45° from the camera, and a back light behind the object. The light intensity should be set like this 100% key light, 50% fill light and 20% back light.

We use a warm color for the key light and a cool color for the fill light so that we have a nice warm-cold transition.

🔥 Then in the Render Properties tab set the samples to 150 plus denoise and start rendering!

🍷 And here's how to create a realistic wine glass with Blender! 

▶️ If you want you can follow the whole process on YouTube (🇮🇹 Italian audio with 🇬🇧 English subtitles)

❤️ If you'd like, support my content creation by following me on:

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