Create and adjust parametric objects with Gizmo 3D

Working with parametric base objects in ZBrush can significantly enhance your creativity and efficiency. With the Gizmo 3D, you have the ability to easily place and immediately modify these objects. In this guide, you'll learn how to utilize the new features of ZBrush 2018 and 4R8 to create and customize your models more effectively.

Key Takeaways

• The Gizmo 3D allows for inserting and modifying parametric base objects directly in ZBrush.
• The options for cones, cylinders, and other basic objects provide flexible customization possibilities.
• You can efficiently manage and edit multiple Subtools through masking and grouping.

Step-by-Step Guide

To work effectively with the Gizmo 3D, you start with a mesh. Here’s a detailed process for utilizing your parametric base objects.

First, open ZBrush and load any mesh, such as a star. I will use the star as a starting point in this tutorial. Go to the main menu to select your mesh and choose the star. ZBrush will then convert the mesh, which you confirm in the dropdown under “Polymesh”.

Now press the “W” key on your keyboard to bring up the Gizmo 3D. The Gizmo is a handy tool that allows you to not only manipulate objects but also adjust their properties. By clicking on “Customize” in the Gizmo, you gain access to numerous new options.

In the upper area, you'll find the parametric base objects, while the deformers are visible in the lower area. Note that these deformers have been significantly updated to provide you with more options for modeling.

Now start by selecting a cylinder. You will notice that your star has now been transformed into a cylinder. You can also convert the cylinder into a polycylinder, cone, or ring – depending on the needs of your modeling. However, it is important to know that not all objects are available in the selection menu.

After activating the cylinder, you can make a series of adjustments. If the resolution in the SV directions is important to you, you can select this option directly at the cone. As you make adjustments, ZBrush will automatically switch to the Polyframe view to give you visual feedback on the changes.

Increase the resolution of the cylinder by changing it. You will see that a tube is being formed. If you want to adjust the length of the cylinder, go back to the Gizmo and pull on the corresponding dials. This way you can shape the desired tube and further modify it.

Keep in mind that you should be cautious when inserting and modifying objects with the Gizmo 3D. Any adjustment may cause you to revert to a previous shape if you do not handle the inputs correctly. Therefore, use the options carefully to retain the desired adjustments.

The use of the Gizmo 3D is not limited to a single object. You can also add multiple parametric objects simultaneously. For example, to add a sphere to your existing tube, you must first mask it before inserting the new object.

Remember to check the resolution of the object before adding it to your Subtool. To divide the two objects into separate Subtools, you can use the group function in the Split menu. This way, you can efficiently separate your objects and maintain control over your modifications.

These steps show you how to work with parametric base objects in ZBrush. Experiment with the various options and modifications to optimize your modeling results.

Summary – Parametric Objects with Gizmo 3D in ZBrush

Working with parametric objects in ZBrush allows you to work efficiently and creatively on your 3D models. The Gizmo 3D offers numerous customization options that enable you to easily and quickly change the shapes, resolutions, and other characteristics of your objects. By creating and managing Subtools, you can organize your projects even better and achieve results that meet the highest standards.