Top tips for striking characters

Kurt explains how he creates a helmet attachment in ZBrush 4R4. This is a simplified version of his character tutorial, showing how you can take the same steps and apply them to a simple object or prop. 

Concept with DynaMesh

To start this piece off, I simply append a sphere into my Tool to act as the helmet. I move it into place on the character’s head and turn DynaMesh on. Because of its size in space you may need to turn the resolution of DynaMesh up to get the information you need. You still want to keep it as low as you can, because you only want to capture the general shapes. I use brushes like HPolish, Clay Buildup, and Dam_Standard to define the design.

DynaMesh with Groups

I turn Groups on in the DynaMesh drop-down menu so I can add additional meshes without fear of DynaMesh fusing them together. This is a really powerful way to stay organised in your SubTool palette by keeping things together with PolyGroups, without sacrificing the freedom of DynaMesh. I add some additional shapes using Mesh Insert primitives like the cylinder and the cube, and cut them into shape with Clip Curve.

Finish up

Once we are happy with the design and the overall shapes we can commit to it, turn DynaMesh off and begin subdividing the mesh if needed. I will now add detail with our usual sculpting brushes, as well as alphas. This is also a good time to use some of our other Insert Mesh objects to add more tech detail like plugs and straps.

For an exclusive interview with Kurt Papstein and to follow his in-depth tutorial to uncover the hottest features in ZBrush 4R4 for ultimate results when creating characters, check out issue 47 of 3D Artist magazine – available now!

How do you read yours?

3D Artist issue 47 is available to buy now from all good newsagents and supermarkets. But if you don’t fancy leaving the door (we won’t blame you), here’s how you can get your mitts on a copy:

• Print copies – if (like us) you still enjoy the pleasure of holding a magazine in your hands and flicking through its pages, you can buy the latest issue and have it shipped to your door
• Digital versions – whatever your preferred device, there’s a copy ready and waiting for it. You can get 3D Artist for your iPad, iPhone, Android, Kindle Fire, Galaxy Tab, Mac and PC through our GreatDigitalMags store – you’ll save money too!
• Zinio – if you’re not sure which digital mag option suits you, then Zinio is great if you want one app where all your magazines and books can be stored. It’s available on Apple products, Android, Blackberry, PC desktop, Mac desktop and more
• If you’re a dedicated Mac fan, you may just fancy the Apple option, available through the Apple Newsstand. The app is free, you’ll just pay for each issue you want to download
• Subscribe – fancy saving money and getting your copy sent direct to you every month? Check out our latest subs deals!