Blender Tutorial - 2D Drawing to 3D Model (Part 1)

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to transform a 2D drawing into a 3D model using Blender 2.92. This is the first part of a two-part series where we will focus on the basics of modeling a character. By the end of this guide, you will have a foundational understanding of Blender and be able to create a 3D model from a reference image.

Step 1: Set Up Blender Settings

• Open Blender and familiarize yourself with the interface.
• Adjust settings for optimal modeling:
  • Go to Edit > Preferences.
  • Under the Interface tab, set the theme and layout that suits you best.

Step 2: Navigate Blender Effectively

• Learn the basic navigation:
  • Use the middle mouse button to rotate the view.
  • Scroll to zoom in and out.
  • Shift + middle mouse button to pan around the workspace.

Step 3: Understand Basic Mesh Components

• Familiarize yourself with vertices, edges, and faces:
  • Vertices are points in 3D space.
  • Edges are lines connecting two vertices.
  • Faces are flat surfaces enclosed by edges.

Step 4: Import a Reference Plane

• To use your character design as a guide:
  • Add a plane by pressing Shift + A and selecting Mesh > Plane.
  • Scale the plane to fit your reference image.
  • Import the image as a texture on the plane:
    • In the Shader Editor, create a new material and add an Image Texture.
    • Load your reference image.

Step 5: Model the Head

• Start shaping the head:
  • Select the plane and enter Edit Mode (Tab).
  • Use the Extrude tool (E) to extend the shape.
  • Move vertices to match the contours of your reference image.

Step 6: Model the Body

• Continue building the body:
  • Use the same techniques as for the head.
  • Pay attention to proportions and ensure symmetry.
  • Use the Mirror Modifier for accuracy on both sides.

Step 7: Model the Dress

• Create the dress using similar modeling techniques:
  • Select the body mesh and extrude downwards to form the dress.
  • Adjust vertices to shape the fabric according to your design.

Step 8: Model the Hat

• Design the hat on top of the head:
  • Create a new mesh for the hat.
  • Use Extrude and Scale to achieve the desired shape.

Step 9: Finalize Facial Features

• Add details to the face:
  • Use the Loop Cut tool (Ctrl + R) to add more geometry where needed.
  • Adjust vertices for eyes, nose, and mouth.

Step 10: Add Final Touches

• Refine your model:
  • Use the Smooth tool to soften edges.
  • Check for any mesh errors or uneven surfaces.

Conclusion

In this first part of the tutorial, we covered the essential steps to create a 3D model from a 2D drawing in Blender. You learned about Blender's interface, basic modeling techniques, and how to model different parts of your character. In the next part, we will focus on UV unwrapping, texturing, lighting, and rendering your character to bring it to life. Be sure to practice these steps, and you'll be well-prepared for the next tutorial!