Blender Donut Tutorial (2026)

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to create a simple donut and a coffee mug in Blender 5.0. This step-by-step guide is designed for beginners and will help you familiarize yourself with Blender's core tools and techniques. Whether you’re a complete novice or looking to sharpen your skills, this tutorial will provide you with practical knowledge to start your 3D modeling journey.

Step 1: Download and Install Blender

• Go to the official Blender website: Download Blender.
• Select the version suitable for your operating system and follow the installation instructions.

Step 2: Navigating Blender

• Open Blender and familiarize yourself with the interface.
• Use the following keys for navigation:
  • Middle Mouse Button: Rotate the view.
  • Shift + Middle Mouse Button: Pan the view.
  • Scroll Wheel: Zoom in and out.

Step 3: Adding Objects

• Press Shift + A to open the Add menu.
• Select Mesh and then choose UV Sphere to create the donut shape.

Step 4: Shade Smooth

• Right-click on the sphere and select Shade Smooth to give it a smoother appearance.

Step 5: Creating a Coffee Mug

• Press Shift + A again and select Mesh, then choose Cylinder for the mug.
• Adjust the dimensions using the properties panel on the right.

Step 6: Using the Move Tool

• Select the mug object and press G to move it around the scene.
• Use the axes constraints (X, Y, Z) to move it precisely.

Step 7: Entering Edit Mode

• Select the mug and press Tab to enter Edit Mode.
• In Edit Mode, you can manipulate the geometry of your objects.

Step 8: Exploring Different Select Options

• Use B for box select and C for circle select to choose multiple vertices or faces.

Step 9: Deleting Faces

• Select the top face of the cylinder (mug) and press X to delete it. This will create an opening for the mug.

Step 10: Introduction to Modifiers

• Go to the Modifiers panel (wrench icon) to add various effects to your model.

Step 11: Adding a Subdivision Surface Modifier

• Click on Add Modifier and select Subdivision Surface to smooth out the mug's shape.

Step 12: Adding Loop Cuts

• Press Ctrl + R to add a loop cut. This allows for more detailed adjustments to your model.

Step 13: Using the Inset Tool

• Select the top edge of the mug and press I to inset it, creating a lip for the mug.

Step 14: Changing Thickness of the Cup

• After insetting, use the move tool to adjust the thickness of the mug to your liking.

Step 15: Save Your Blender File

• Go to File and select Save As to save your project for later use.

Conclusion

You have now created a simple donut and a coffee mug using Blender 5.0. By following these steps, you have learned essential navigation, modeling techniques, and how to use modifiers. As you continue to explore Blender, consider joining the Blender Guru community or checking out their Beginner Academy for further learning. Happy blending!