Mixamo Animation to Custom Character in Blender

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to create a rigged and animated custom character using Mixamo and Blender. This process includes downloading a character, uploading it to Mixamo for rigging, applying animations, and editing those animations in Blender. This guide is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their 3D animation skills.

Step 1: Download The Custom Character

• Visit the provided link to download the 3D character: Download the 3D Character.
• Ensure the character file format is compatible with Mixamo, typically in FBX or OBJ format.

Step 2: Uploading The Character To Mixamo

• Go to the Mixamo website: Mixamo.
• Sign in or create a free account.
• Click on the "Upload Character" button.
• Select the downloaded character file from your computer and upload it.

Step 3: Creating Mixamo Rig With Auto-Rigging

• After the upload is complete, Mixamo will prompt you to rig your character.
• Use the auto-rigging feature:
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to place markers on the character.
  • Position markers on the head, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, and ankles as indicated.
• Click "Next" to begin the rigging process. Wait for Mixamo to finish rigging your character.

Step 4: Applying Mixamo Animation To The Character

• Once rigging is complete, explore the animation library on Mixamo.
• Select an animation you like and click on it to preview.
• Adjust the animation settings if necessary, such as speed and loop options.
• Click the "Download" button:
  • Choose the format (FBX for Blender).
  • Ensure to select the "With Skin" option to include the character mesh.

Step 5: Import The Character Into Blender

• Open Blender and go to the "File" menu.
• Select "Import," then choose the appropriate file type (FBX).
• Locate the downloaded Mixamo file and import it into your Blender project.
• Once imported, ensure the character animation is functioning correctly.

Step 6: Editing Mixamo Animations

• In Blender, switch to the "Animation" workspace.
• Use the timeline to view the animation.
• Select the armature and navigate to the "Action Editor."
• Here, you can adjust keyframes or modify the animation as needed.

Step 7: Combining Mixamo Animations

• To combine multiple animations:
  • Import additional animations from Mixamo as in Step 4.
  • In the "Action Editor," create or select a new action.
  • Use the "NLA Editor" to stack animations by adding strips for each animation.
  • Adjust timing and transitions between animations as desired.

Conclusion

You've successfully created a rigged and animated custom character using Mixamo and Blender. This tutorial covered downloading a character, rigging it with Mixamo, applying animations, and editing those animations in Blender. As a next step, consider experimenting with different animations and combining them to create unique sequences for your projects. Happy animating!