How I Made Myself a VTuber! 🌸💚 [Part 1: Drawing the Model]

Introduction

This tutorial guides you through the process of creating a VTuber model from scratch, inspired by the video "How I Made Myself a VTuber!" by Hanacue. The tutorial covers the design, sketching, lining, and coloring stages of model creation, providing practical advice and tips along the way. Whether you're a digital artist or simply curious about VTubing, this guide will help you understand the foundational steps involved in making your own VTuber model.

Chapter 1: The Design

• Start with your existing persona as a foundation. Consider what elements you love and want to evolve.
• Simplify your design to clarify its shape language. Focus on key elements:
  • Hair: Decide on the style (e.g., messy bob with heart-shaped braids).
  • Silhouette: Aim for a recognizable shape, such as an upside-down heart.
  • Clothing: Choose essential items like a fuzzy cardigan and a short skirt, removing redundant details.
• Emphasize design features that reflect your personality and preferences, maintaining a girly and cute aesthetic.

Chapter 2: What is a VTuber

• Understand that a VTuber is a digital avatar representing you, simulating movements in real-time via a webcam.
• VTubing gained popularity during the pandemic, merging communities like anime, gaming, and art.
• Learn about different types of VTuber models:
  • 3D Models: Often used in applications like VRChat.
  • Live2D Models: Utilize flat 2D art for a unique animation style using software like Live2D Cubism.
• Acknowledge the benefits of Live2D models, such as ease of control and artistic appeal.

Chapter 3: Sketching and Planning the Model

• Keep your design symmetrical for ease of rigging.
• Use a program that allows saving in .psd format with layered functionality (e.g., Clip Studio Paint).
• Visualize your model as a paper doll, allowing for layered construction:
  • Draw body parts separately for future movement and outfit changes.
• Plan for dynamic accessories (e.g., ribbons, earrings) that enhance visual appeal and movement.
• Create a color plan to visualize balance and determine design harmony before lining.

Chapter 4: Lining the Model

• Use a separate layer for each part of the model to maintain organization.
• Overline areas like the neck to accommodate head movement in rigging.
• Employ the symmetry tool to save time when lining symmetrical parts.
• Name and color-code your layers to manage complexity effectively.

Chapter 5: Base Coloring

• Add base colors to eliminate blank spaces and ensure a clean look.
• Understand layer hierarchy to position parts correctly.
• Draw back layers for clothing elements to create a cohesive appearance.

Chapter 6: Working on Arm Poses

• Be mindful of the time-consuming nature of creating multiple arm poses.
• Limit yourself to essential poses to avoid overwhelming complexity early on.
• Consider the usability of poses; prioritize poses that enhance viewer engagement.

Chapter 7: Coloring the Model

• Render your model with detailed coloring on a separate layer to achieve depth.
• Maintain separate layers for lines, base colors, and detailed rendering for flexibility in rigging.
• Consider experimenting with shading techniques to add a 3D appearance.

Conclusion

Creating a VTuber model is a complex yet rewarding process that involves careful planning and execution. By following these steps—designing your character, sketching, lining, coloring, and planning for rigging—you can lay a solid foundation for bringing your digital avatar to life. With practice and patience, you can refine your techniques and eventually create a stunning VTuber model. Stay tuned for the next part of the tutorial series, where rigging and final adjustments will be covered!