How to Divide in ZBrush?

Understanding How to Divide in ZBrush

Dividing Objects in ZBrush: An Introduction

ZBrush is an incredibly powerful 3D modeling tool used for creating elaborate and detailed models. One common task is dividing objects within the software, helping artists manage complex creations by working with multiple SubTools. This guide will provide a step-by-step approach to dividing models effectively in ZBrush.

Step 1: Using the Remesh Function

To divide a model in ZBrush, first, you may want to modify the object’s geometry using the Remesh feature:

1. Select Your Tool: Open ZBrush and ensure the tool you want to modify is loaded.

2. Access the Remesh Settings: Navigate to the "Geometry" menu on the right-side panel and locate the "Remesh" option.

3. Modify the Parameters: Adjust the remeshing settings to suit your project’s needs. Pay attention to the resolution settings, as these will affect the detail and polygon count of your new model.

4. Execute the Remesh: Click on the "Remesh" button. This process creates a new topology based on your initial object, potentially resulting in multiple separate PolyGroups for the different areas of your model.

Step 2: Splitting into SubTools

After utilizing the Remesh function, your model might consist of distinct parts that are still grouped under a single Tool. To separate these into individual SubTools:

1. Navigate to the SubTool Menu: Click on the "Tool" palette found on the right side of the interface. The "SubTool" section is located here.

2. Select Group Split: Within the SubTool menu, you will find the "Group Split" button. Clicking this will separate your model into different SubTools based on the PolyGroups created during remeshing.

3. Confirm the Split: Ensure that the SubTools have been divided correctly and that you can see each part in the SubTool list.

Step 3: Adjusting Individual SubTools

Now that your model is separated into multiple parts:

1. Select a SubTool: Click on one of the newly created SubTools to modify it individually.

2. Editing: Utilize tools such as Move, Scale, and Rotate to manipulate the SubTool as needed. Each part can now be customized without affecting the others.

3. Refining Edges: If you need to smooth the edges of any SubTool, utilize the Smoothing Brushes or the “Smooth” function to refine the model where necessary.

Step 4: Saving Your Work

Regularly saving your work is crucial, especially after significant modifications:

1. Save Your Tools: Head to the "Tool" menu and click on "Save As." Name your file appropriately to ensure you don’t lose any progress.

2. Check File Size: Be mindful that saving your project this way can also help reduce file sizes, which is beneficial for managing larger projects.

FAQ

1. What is the difference between remeshing and subdividing in ZBrush?
Remeshing creates a new topology for your model, redistributing polygons for optimal geometry. Subdividing, on the other hand, increases the polygon count of your existing mesh to add detail without altering its shape.

2. Can I undo the division of SubTools in ZBrush?
Yes, ZBrush allows you to undo operations. If you accidentally split or modified your SubTools, you can use the Undo function (Ctrl + Z) to revert the changes.

3. Are there any limitations when dividing SubTools?
Dividing SubTools is quite flexible, but it’s essential to ensure that the parts you want to split are distinctly grouped. If several areas share the same PolyGroup, they may not separate as intended when using the Group Split function.