Beginner Blender 4.0 Tutorial - Part 4: Sculpting

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn the fundamentals of sculpting in Blender 4.0. We'll cover essential techniques and tools to help you create organic shapes, focusing on a donut model with icing. By the end, you'll have a solid understanding of how to manipulate your mesh effectively and apply sculpting techniques to enhance your 3D models.

Chapter 1: Technical Check

Before diving into sculpting, it's crucial to perform a technical check to identify and fix any mesh issues that might hinder your work.

Steps:

1. Enter Edit Mode.
2. If any parts of your mesh are hidden, press Alt + H to reveal them.
3. Look for common issues:
   • Overlapping mesh parts.
   • Separated vertices or edges.
4. Use the snapping tool to move points back into place:
   • Select the point.
   • Press G to grab and move it.
5. Consider using the Shrinkwrap modifier for better alignment:
   • Add the Shrinkwrap modifier from the modifiers stack.
   • Use the eyedropper tool to select the target mesh for snapping.
   • Ensure the Shrinkwrap modifier is above other modifiers in the stack to avoid artifacts.

Chapter 2: Applying Thickness

To sculpt effectively, you need to convert your modifiers into actual mesh.

Steps:

1. Apply the thickness modifier by selecting it in the modifiers panel and clicking Apply.
2. Once applied, enter Edit Mode to manipulate the mesh directly.
3. Use the G key to select and move points, if needed, but be prepared for tedious adjustments.

Chapter 3: Entering Sculpt Mode

Sculpt Mode is essential for creating organic shapes and adding detail.

Steps:

1. Switch from Object or Edit Mode to Sculpt Mode.
2. Familiarize yourself with the sculpting tools on the left side.
3. Start with the Inflate Brush (shortcut: I):
   • Adjust the size using F key (drag mouse to resize).
   • Adjust strength with Shift + F.

Chapter 4: Changing Brush Size and Strength

Mastering brush settings allows for greater control during sculpting.

Tips:

• Use F to adjust the brush size dynamically while sculpting.
• Use Shift + F to adjust the strength of the brush for finer control.
• Be cautious with low-resolution meshes; they may create jagged edges.

Chapter 5: Adding More Detail

To enhance your sculpting work, increase the mesh detail.

Steps:

1. Apply the Subdivision Surface modifier (two levels recommended) to increase detail.
2. Click Apply to make it part of the mesh.
3. Observe that the number of vertices has increased, allowing for detailed sculpting.

Chapter 6: Inflating the Globules

Enhance the look of your model by adding bulges where icing accumulates.

Steps:

1. Use the Inflate Brush to create bulges on the donut.
2. Apply small circular strokes for a more controlled effect.

Chapter 7: Using the Grab Brush

The Grab Brush helps reshape and exaggerate parts of your model for a more appealing design.

Steps:

1. Select the Grab Brush (shortcut: G).
2. Click and drag to reshape the donut, focusing on making the design more appealing.

Chapter 8: Masking for Precision

Masking allows you to work on specific areas without affecting the rest of the mesh.

Steps:

1. Select the Mask Brush (shortcut: M).
2. Paint over the areas you want to mask to prevent them from being affected by other tools.
3. Use Ctrl + I to invert the mask if needed.

Chapter 9: Using the Filter Brush

The Filter Brush allows you to apply uniform changes across the masked area.

Steps:

1. Select the Mesh Filter tool.
2. Adjust the strength to a low value (e.g., 0.1) for subtle adjustments.
3. Move your cursor to apply inflation or deflation uniformly.

Chapter 10: Smoothing Out Edges

Smoothing is essential for refining your sculpt and removing artifacts.

Steps:

1. Clear any existing masks.
2. Use the Smooth Tool while holding Shift to temporarily smooth out areas.
3. Adjust the strength of the Smooth Tool as necessary.

Conclusion

You've learned the basics of sculpting in Blender, covering technical checks, applying modifiers, and using various brushes to create detailed and appealing models. To continue your learning journey, explore more advanced sculpting techniques and practice creating your own designs. Happy sculpting!