Understanding Polygon Visibility in ZBrush
When working with complex 3D models in ZBrush, it becomes essential to manage visibility for improved workflow and focus. This guide covers how to hide polygons effectively, enabling artists to isolate areas for detailed editing without distractions.
Hiding Specific Parts of the Mesh
To conceal portions of your 3D model, use the following steps:
Activate Selection Mode: Press and hold the Shift key along with Ctrl. This combination allows you to utilize the lasso selection tool effectively.
Select the Area: With the keys held down, click and drag over the specific area of the mesh you wish to hide. Different brushes can be selected from the Brush palette to customize your selection process.
- Finalize the Selection: After releasing the mouse button, you will find that only the selected area remains visible. This allows you to work on that segment without interference from other polygons.
Isolating Polygroups
Polygroups are collections of polygons that can be managed individually, making it easier to manipulate complex models. To hide all but a specific polygroup, perform the following steps:
Select the Polygroup: While holding down Ctrl and Shift, click on the polygroup you want to isolate. This action will hide all other polygroups in your model.
- Restore Visibility: If you wish to bring back all the polygroups, hold Ctrl and Shift, then click on an empty area in the canvas. This will revert your view to include all polygroups.
Working with SubTools
SubTools are separate elements within your primary model, useful for organizing complex designs. Here’s how you can hide them:
Open the SubTool Panel: Go to the SubTool menu located within the Tool palette.
Hide the Desired SubTool: Click the eye icon next to the SubTool you wish to hide. This will render the selected SubTool invisible, allowing for focused editing of other components.
- Show the SubTool Again: Simply click the eye icon again to make the hidden SubTool visible once more.
Utilizing Masking Techniques
Masking is another valuable technique in ZBrush that allows for selective visibility:
Create a Mask: Press Ctrl and click on the model surface. This will apply a mask to the polygons you click on, shielding them from edits.
Refine the Mask: For more control, hold Ctrl + Shift and click to refine which areas remain masked or visible.
- Clear the Mask: To remove the mask entirely, press Ctrl + Shift + A. This resets visibility, showing all previously masked polygons.
Understanding Display Properties
Another feature that can impact polygon visibility is the display settings within ZBrush.
Access the Display Properties: Navigate to the Tool menu and look for Display Properties options.
- Enable Double-Sided Viewing: Click the Double button to see both sides of polygons on the mesh. This can provide better insight when working with thin surfaces or flat geometry.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I temporarily hide polygons without affecting the model?
Yes, using masking tools allows you to hide specific polygons without permanently altering your model. The masked areas are protected from changes until you decide to clear the mask.
2. How do I see which polygons are hidden?
Currently hidden polygons will not appear in the working view. If you need to see all polygons, simply clear any active masks or ensure all polygroups are visible through the visibility controls.
3. What should I do if I accidentally hide too many polygons?
To restore visibility, press Ctrl + Shift and click on empty canvas space. Alternatively, directly manipulate the visibility settings of polygroups or SubTools to bring back the desired elements.
