ZBrush 2019 - Effectively Use Subtool Folders

With the introduction of the Subtool-Folders in ZBrush 2019, Pixologic has fulfilled a long-held wish of many users. This feature allows you to organize your subtools more efficiently and complete various tasks within your model more quickly. Instead of managing your subtools simply in a long list, you can sort them into clear folders. This not only improves your workflow but also makes navigation and editing of your model more pleasant. In this guide, you will learn how to create, manage subtool folders, and apply various useful operations.

Key Insights

• Subtool folders allow for improved organization of your models.
• There are various operations you can perform with subtool folders to increase your work efficiency.
• You can customize folders to control the visibility of your subtools and optimize your workspace.

Step-by-Step Guide

Accessing ZBrush and the Lightbox

Before you can use the new features in ZBrush, start the program. When the Lightbox is visible, you will see the latest models and presets. If you do not need the Lightbox, you can hide it in the settings. Alternatively, it is also accessible at any time using the comma key.

Creating a New Subtool Folder

Navigate to the subtools in the Tool menu. Here you will find the New Folder button to create a new folder. Note that you must give the folder a unique name. Good naming is important to keep track of things.

Adding Subtools to Your Folder

After you have created your new folder, select a subtool that you want to move to the folder. By simply dragging and dropping, you can move the subtool into the folder. A blue line will appear to indicate where the subtool will be placed. This works similarly to other programs you may be familiar with.

Managing Subtool Visibility

A major advantage of subtool folders is that you can control the visibility of groups of subtools. By clicking on the folder icon, you can show or hide all contained subtools. This gives you the freedom to hide what you do not need, thus optimizing your overview.

Navigating and Organizing Folders

If you have multiple subtools in a folder, you will find it easier to manage them. For example, you can move subtools between folders or create new folders for specific parts of your model. Always keep the folder hierarchy in mind when creating new folders to avoid losing track.

Using Transpose with Folders

The transpose function in ZBrush is now more efficient with folders. When you have multiple subtools in one folder, you can move the entire folder as a single unit. To do this, hold down the control key to select specific subtools and perform your transformations. This saves you time, especially when working with many subtools.

Operations with Subtool Folders

ZBrush allows you to perform a variety of operations with subtool folders. In addition to moving, you can duplicate, merge, or delete folders. However, note that deleting a folder is permanent and will also remove the contained subtools. Avoid using the undo function, as it is not always available for these operations.

Polypaint Information in Folders

You can also manage polypaint information within a folder. By using the “Hide” and “Show Polypaint” functions, you can control and better manage the polypaint of your models. This feature provides you with a convenient way to switch between different color options and check your materials.

Filtering Subtools with Folders

A useful feature is the ability to filter subtools within a folder. You can choose which subtools to display or hide, which is especially useful when working with many details. This significantly improves clarity and makes working on complex projects much easier.

Summary – ZBrush 2019: Optimal Use of Subtool Folders

The new subtool folders in ZBrush 2019 provide you with an effective method for organizing your models. You can quickly and easily move subtools into folders, control their visibility as needed, and perform various operations to increase your efficiency. With these practical features, you will find working with ZBrush 2019 much easier and more intuitive.