Book Image

Blender 3D Basics

Book Image

Blender 3D Basics

Overview of this book

Blender is by far the most popular open source graphics program available. It is a full featured 3D modeling, animation and games development tool used by millions all over the world ñ and it's free! This book is for those looking for an entry into the world of 3D modeling and animation regardless of prior experience. Blender 3D Basics is the entry level book for those without prior experience using 3D tools. It caters for those who may have downloaded Blender in the past but were frustrated by its lack of intuitiveness. Using simple steps it builds, chapter by chapter, into a full foundation in 3D modeling and animation. Using Blender 3D Basics the reader will model a maritime scene complete with boats and water, then add materials, lighting and animation. The book demystifies the Blender interface and explains what each tool does so that you will be left with a thorough understanding of 3D.
Table of Contents (20 chapters)
Blender 3D Basics Beginner's Guide
Credits
About the Author
About the Reviewers
www.PacktPub.com
Preface
3
Controlling the Lamp, the Camera, and Animating Objects
Index

Modeling with Bezier Curves


In Chapter 3, Controlling the Lamp, the Camera, and Animating Objects you discussed using Bezier Curves as F-Curves to control motion. Blender uses Bezier Curves for modeling as well. They are good for making objects with smooth curves. One big difference between the curves used for controlling motion and the curves used for modeling is that the ones used for modeling can move along the X, Y, and Z axes instead of just the timeline axis, so they can be used with much more flexibility.

Making an object with a single Bezier Curve

Much of the time, Bezier Curves are used like cookie cutters to describe a shape which is then extruded. These may even have holes in them so you can make very complex shapes. However you will start with a simple one.