Mixamo Animation to Custom Character in Blender

3 min read 1 month ago
Published on Oct 03, 2024 This response is partially generated with the help of AI. It may contain inaccuracies.

Table of Contents

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!