With the Gizmo 3D in ZBrush, you have the opportunity to not only transform objects but also to customize the Gizmo itself to suit your needs. In this guide, I will show you how to effectively use the Gizmo 3D to optimally place and manipulate your 3D models in space. I will guide you step by step through the most important features and provide you with valuable tips for working with ZBrush.
Key insights
- The Gizmo 3D is customizable and can be positioned at various points in space.
- Using the functions of the Gizmo, you can rotate, scale, and bring objects back to a specific axis.
- With shortcuts, you can speed up and make your work with the Gizmo more efficient.
Step-by-step guide
To customize the Gizmo 3D in ZBrush, follow this step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Create an object and activate the Gizmo 3D First, you will work with a sphere. Create a new sphere and convert it into a PolyMesh. To better recognize the polygon structure, activate the Polyframe.

Step 2: Customize the Gizmo 3D With the Gizmo 3D, you can now change the shape and position of your mesh. When you open the lock of the Gizmo, you can give it a new position. Rotation and size can also be adjusted. When you close the lock again, the Gizmo is fixed in the new position.
Step 3: Bring the Gizmo back to the central axis If you have accidentally moved the Gizmo to the wrong position, open the lock again. You can then easily move the Gizmo back to the central axis and then close the lock again to fix it permanently.
Step 4: Bring the Gizmo to the center of an unmasked mesh You can bring the Gizmo directly to the center of an unmasked mesh. Make sure that all areas of the mesh are unmasked, select the Gizmo, and press the corresponding button. This will place the Gizmo at the center of the unmasked area.
Step 5: Use Sticky Mode In Sticky Mode, you can pull the axis of the Gizmo. This mode is particularly useful for connecting the Gizmo to the mesh. Try to enable the Gizmo in this mode when you want to hold it firmly at a specific point.
Step 6: Use a shortcut for the lock To simplify opening and closing the lock, you can use the Alt key. Hold down the Alt key to automatically open the lock while you adjust the Gizmo. Upon releasing the Alt key, the lock will close again.

Step 7: Click directly on a point A direct method to transform the Gizmo is to hold the Alt key and click on the desired point of your mesh. This will place the Gizmo exactly at that location.

Step 8: Select and modify multiple Subtools If you are working with multiple Subtools, you can also easily modify them with the Gizmo. Hold down the Control key and Shift key while selecting the desired Subtools. You will then have the option to simultaneously change the size and position of these Subtools.

Step 9: Deselect unwanted elements If you accidentally selected the wrong Subtools, you can use the same technique to select all others by clicking outside the desired Subtools. This allows you to quickly change the masking while working with the Gizmo.

Summary – Optimal use of Gizmo 3D in ZBrush 2018 and 4R8
In this guide, you have learned how to customize and effectively use the Gizmo 3D in ZBrush. From simple customizations in the position and shape of your models to more complex tasks such as editing multiple Subtools – the Gizmo 3D is a powerful tool in your 3D workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I bring the Gizmo 3D to the center of a mesh?You can bring the Gizmo to the center of an unmasked mesh by unmasking all areas and pressing the corresponding button.
What is the Sticky Mode for the Gizmo?The Sticky Mode allows you to connect the Gizmo to a point on your mesh, so it stays there while you make other adjustments.
How can I call the Gizmo faster?Use the Alt key to toggle the lock while working with the Gizmo.
Can I edit multiple Subtools at the same time?Yes, by holding down the Control key and Shift key, you can select and modify multiple Subtools simultaneously.
What should I do if I accidentally selected the wrong Subtool?Click outside of the desired Subtools while holding down the Control key to select others.