Hot Software Tips How-Tos
How To: Animate fingers with an easy rig in Blender 2.5
This Blender 2.5 video tutorial takes on the process of rigging the fingers to a human hand with only a few bones and constraints. This technique leaves you with fingers that are very easy to animate and control without the need for IKs or Drivers. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial f...
How To: Use Blender 2.5's external drag and drop feature
In this quick Blender 2.5 video tip, you'll see how to use the new external drag and drop functionality recently added to Blender. This feature enables you to drag and drop images and videos from your operating systems file browser into Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from...
How To: Place decals onto 3D models via empties in Blender 2.5
This Blender 2.5 quick video tip demonstrates how to easily place decals onto your model with empties. This technique provides you complete control over the location, rotation and scale of your decal without the need for UV maps. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG...
How To: Make custom shortcuts for Blender mesh selection modes
Tthis Blender 2.5 video tutorial goes through the steps needed to create custom keyboard shortcuts for changing mesh selection modes (vertex, edge, face). This allows you to very quickly switch between modes by simply pressing 1,2,3 on your keyboard. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial...
How To: Adjust Window Draw Method settings in Blender 2.5
This quick tip takes a look at probably one of the most important settings to control the smoothness of Blender's UI interaction, the Window Draw Method. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions on tweaki...
How To: Create a 3D blowing leaf animation in Blender 2.5
This clip demonstrates how to create a simple scene of blowing leaves. This technique makes good use of alpha mapped leaves, particle systems and a particle instance modifier to achieve the result. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, i...
How To: Smooth out 3D models with Blender's Edgesplit modifier
In this quick Blender 2.5 video tip, you'll see how to make a lowpoly model appear smoother than it actually is by using an Edgesplit modifier. This technique also resolves the issue with artifacts you commonly face when displaying a lowpoly model as smooth. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software ...
How To: Model the feathery wings of a bird in Blender 2.5
This Blender 2.5 Video tutorial presents an overview of using the particle hair system to create downey feathers, then using the duplifaces technique to add the longer feathers, as well as their texturing and a quick rig setup. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG C...
How To: Use Blender's Fly Mode feature to position the camera
In this quick Blender 2.5 video, you'll see how to use the fly mode to position the camera. This method allows you to fly the camera around from a first-person perspective. It can aid in setting your camera angle and provide a bit of fun. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the fo...
How To: Create a 3D chain model in Blender 2.5
This Blender 2.5 video tutorial offers a lesson in how to create an easy chain with nothing more than a single link, a array modifier and a curve modifier. Then see the process of using the freshly created chain in a simple scene. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at C...
How To: Create blueprints in Blender 2.5
In this Blender 2.5 video tutorial, you'll see a method for generating neat-looking blueprint graphics. This tutorial includes using the Gears add-on, creating outline-only objects, setting up the World to look like a blueprint, and more. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the fo...
How To: Create a simple studio backdrop in Blender 2.5
This quick Blender 2.5 video tip shows how to make a simple drop-cloth effect like those you see photographers often use. The tip also demonstrates how to make the drop cloth follow the camera's rotation. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more informa...
How To: Model the topology of a human shoulder in Blender
Arguably the single most important aspect to modeling is topology. This Blender 2.5 overview tutorial takes a look at the topology of the human shoulder, examining each of the main edgeloops, poles, etc.
How To: Spin duplicates with an array modifier in Blender
This quick Blender 2.5 video tip demonstrates how to replicate objects with an array modifier in the same way that the Spin Duplicates function works. This techniques maintains the objects edit-ability even after spinning. a while back i posted about having a nasal voice that needs taming (i sound a bit like bob geldolf). 2 suggestions were the beyer m500 and the EV re20. i borrowed a friends re20 and found it very dull sounding. so dull i immediately threw in the towel. duller then my sm57 o...
How To: Lock the viewing angle in Blender by viewport snapping
This quick Blender video tip demonstrates how to use viewport snapping to lock the viewing angle to any 45 degree increment. This feature is similar to the viewport navigation that is found in ZBrush. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information...
How To: Model realistic hair in Blender
This Blender user's guide discusses techniques for creating hair and giving them textures and materials. The first is Mesh hair using Bezier Curves, and the second is Particle Hair. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by...
How To: Layer background images in Blender 2.5
This quick Blender 2.5 video tip tutorial demonstrates how to use multiple background images. This feature is very useful and allows for layering images in the viewport and assigning separate images to specific viewing angles. Without the need for multiple viewports. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video ...
How To: Model a human hand in Blender 3D
This Blender 2.5 video tutorial offers a demonstration and overview of clean hand topology. The tutorial includes tips on how to structure your mesh, including clean topology, mesh flow and edgeloop density. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more info...
How To: Rig eyes for dilation in Blender
In this Blender 2.5 video tutorial, you'll see how to use driven shape-keys to dilate the pupil of an eye. The tutorial also demonstrates how to use custom bone shapes and limiting the transformation of a bone via constraints. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Co...
How To: Create rounded-off square forms in Blender 2.5
In this quick Blender 2.5 video tip, you'll see how to easily model a rounded-off square form by using snapping/retopology tools. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!
How To: Create insets with Blender's smooth & extrude tools
In this quick Blender 2.5 tip, you'll see how to easily create insets in your mesh. This technique uses the Extrude Individual Faces and Smooth tools. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!
How To: Render objects in Blender
This clip presents a quick introduction to rendering within Blender, the popular (and free) 3d modeling app. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions on how to get started rendering, take a look!
How To: Animate a 3D object within Blender
This clip presents a general introduction to animating models when working in Blender, the popular (and free) 3D modeling app. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions on how to create your own simple ani...
How To: Apply lighting to 3D objects in Blender
This clip covers the very basics of how lighting works within the Blender 3D modeling app. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions on how to create and manipulate lights, take a look!
How To: Texture 3D objects with materials in Blender
Materials allow you to just the colors and specularity of your 3D models. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions on applying materials to your own Blender models, take a look!
How To: Get started creating simple 3D models in Blender 2.5
Before you can work in Blender, you'll have to learn how to work with it. Fortunately, this guide will show you everything you'll need to know to get started creating your own models within Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, ...
How To: Download and install Blender 2.5
This clip discusses the process of downloading and installing Blender, the free 3D modeling and animation application. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!
How To: Exporting a Lowpoly Model to Unity 3D
This clip offers instruction on how to export a model from Blender to Unity 3D and import it into a game. The tutorial also demonstrates how to bake a normal map and a color map from a highpoly model to the lowpoly counterpart, real-time display of the color/normal maps in the Blender viewport with GLSL shading, and real-time updating of assets in Unity. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely ...
How To: Make a 3D model of a teddy bear in Blender
See how to create a 3D model of a cuddly teddy bear within Blender 2.5 with this detailed, comprehensive guide. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!
How To: Copy DVDs with DVD Shrink
In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to copy DVD videos with DVD Shrink. This task is very fast, simple and easy to do. Begin by opening the DVD Shrink program and make sure that you have inserted the DVD into the disc drive. Now click on Open Disc and select the DVD drive from the drop-down menu. Click OK. The program will begin to analyze the DVD. When finished, click on Full Disc, select a folder destination and click OK. Now wait for the DVD to finish encrypting. This video will bene...
How To: Type math equations in OpenOffice Writer
In this Software video tutorial you will type math equations in Open Office Writer. Double click and open up the writer. First you got to add a button to the toolbar. For this, click on the arrow at the end of the toolbar and select 'customize toolbar'. On the window that pops up, click on 'add'. Then highlight 'insert' (on left hand side) and 'formula' (on the right hand side) and then click add > close > OK. You can now see the formula button on the toolbar. To add a mathematical equation t...
How To: Rip a DVD movie with Handbrake
In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to rip a DVD with the program, Handbrake. Begin by opening the video in the program by clicking on Source and locating the DVD drive. Handbrake will start scanning the all the titles of the DVD. When finished, it will automatically select the correct title for the movie. Under Destination, click on Browse to select your saving destination. You are also able to change the name of the file. Now select the video format and aspect ratio. When finished, cl...
How To: Render a Star Wars light saber in Blender 2.5
This Blender 2.5 video tutorial tackles something that is on most people's "create -before-I-die" list, a Jedi light saber. This tutorial focuses in on the post-processing aspect by setting up a node network to create the effect of the glowing blade. Modeling is not covered in this tutorial. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well s...
How To: Create light streaks in Blender
In this Blender 2.5 video tutorial, you'll see a technique that makes use of array and curve modifiers to create light streaks like those you would see froma long exposure capture. The tutorial covers modifiers, materials and node compositing. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from t...
How To: Copy user settings in Blender 2.5
This quick Blender 2.5 tip video demonstrates an easy way to copy over your settings from previous testing builds of Blender 2.5 to the latest build you have downloaded. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instru...
How To: Model a realistic human eyeball in Blender
In this tutorial, you'll see how to create a fairly realistic-looking eyeball within Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!
How To: Match plane's aspect ratio to an image in Blender
In this tip video, you'll see how to set the aspect ratio of a plane object to match that of the image mapped to it. This is important to prevent distortion in the mapped image. This knowledge will be helpful when using image planes for cutout trees and people, instanced image planes for particle effects, and any situation where you need non-distorted images on plane objects. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned ...
How To: Do high-poly sculpting within Blender 2.5
In order to reach high levels of polygons while sculpting in Blender 2.5, it is important to start from a base mesh, versus the default cube. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!
How To: Measure objects and distances within Blender
This clip offers a look at how to measure objects and distances in Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!
How To: Create stable procedural noise textures in Blender
In this quick clip, you'll see how to easily create a procedural noise texture that's stable during animation, unlike the default "Noise" procedural texture that's available in Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including ste...