Merging in ZBrush can enhance your modeling workflow by allowing you to combine various elements into a singular mesh or structure. Here’s a detailed guide to the process, focusing specifically on merging Subtools, Polygroups, and using DynaMesh effectively.
Merging Subtools
Open the Subtool Palette: Start by navigating to the Subtool palette, which is usually located on the right side of the interface. Here, you’ll find all the Subtools you’re currently working with.
Select the Subtools: Click on the Subtool you want to merge and ensure it is active. If you wish to merge this Subtool with one directly below it, highlight the one you wish to merge down into.
Merge Down: With the desired Subtool selected, locate the “Merge Down” option within the Subtool palette. Click this button to combine the two Subtools into a single entity.
Employ DynaMesh: After merging, activate DynaMesh to recompute the mesh topology. In the DynaMesh settings, check the “Project” option and set a high resolution value. This ensures that all details from the original Subtools are preserved during the merging process.
- Final Adjustments: Once DynaMesh has completed, you may want to smooth out any artifacts or irregular edges that appeared from the merging process. Use smoothing brushes or tools to refine the new mesh.
Combining Polygroups
Select Polygroups: Begin by selecting the Polygroups you wish to merge. Hold down the CTRL and SHIFT keys and click on each Polygroup to highlight them while concealing the ones you don’t need.
Group Visible: Once the desired Polygroups are selected and visible, navigate to the Tool menu. Look for the “Polygroups” section and click on the “Group Visible” button. This action will merge the selected Polygroups into a singular group.
- Verify the Merge: After merging, examine your model to ensure that the Polygroups have combined as expected. You can toggle visibility options to check for accuracy.
Utilizing DynaMesh for Multiple Subtools
Prepare Your Subtools: First, make sure all Subtools you want to work on are properly arranged and visible in the Subtool palette.
Select Subtools: Hold down the CTRL and SHIFT keys to select multiple Subtools that you want to merge or work with simultaneously.
Activate DynaMesh: With your selection intact, go to the DynaMesh option in the geometry menu and enable it. Adjust the resolution as needed to ensure it captures the details adequately.
Apply DynaMesh: Once you’ve configured your settings, press the DynaMesh button. This will process the selected Subtools and create a new mesh that integrates all geometry into a seamless structure.
- Refine the Mesh: Identify any areas needing cleanup or further detailing post-DynaMesh processing. Use sculpting tools to fix any imperfections that may have appeared during the merging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I revert the merge after combining Subtools?
Once you merge Subtools in ZBrush, the process is generally permanent unless you have an earlier version saved or use the Undo command immediately after.
Q2: Is it possible to merge different types of geometry, such as curves and meshes?
Yes, you can merge different types of geometry in ZBrush, but they should be converted to a polymesh first. Use the "Make Polymesh 3D" option for non-mesh items.
Q3: What should I do if DynaMesh does not seem to capture all details?
If you find that DynaMesh isn’t preserving details, try increasing the resolution setting before reapplying DynaMesh. Also, check if the mesh has sufficient topology to begin with, as very low-res meshes may result in loss of detail.
