What SVGs are and Why Use Them SVG stands for Scalable Vector Graphics. SVGs are vector image files that use XML-based text format to describe images using geometric vectors, shapes, text and effects. Being vector-based, SVGs can scale to any size without losing quality. This makes them ideal for print, web and 3D workflows. Compared…
Identifying Problematic Curves Recognizing issues with curve topology early on can save significant cleanup time later. Carefully inspect curves for overlapping control points, irregular spacing, twists, folds, and other defects before attempting to use them to generate surfaces or animate motion. Recognizing overlapping control points Zoom in closely on all areas of the curve and…
What are Single Values and Fields? In Blender’s node-based workflow, single values and fields refer to different data types used to pass information between nodes. A single value contains one numeric input or output, like a single number. A field contains multiple numeric inputs or outputs, like a collection of numbers. For example, the Math…
What are Attribute Domains and Fields? In Blender, attribute domains and fields allow you to store custom data on mesh geometry. An attribute domain defines a data type and domain from which values can be assigned to each vertex, edge, face, or corner of a mesh. Common attribute domains include: Boolean – True or false…
Troubleshooting Node Connection Errors Node-based workflow is integral to creating materials, textures, and effects in Blender. However, users often encounter cryptic node connection errors that halt progress on projects. These errors typically arise from mismatches between the data types that nodes output and expect as inputs. Learning to troubleshoot such data type issues enables resolving…
Understanding Viewport Handles in Blender Viewport handles in Blender refer to the widgets that appear when an object, bone, or other component is selected. These handles allow you to visually manipulate and transform elements directly in the 3D viewport. There are several types of viewport handles in Blender: Move Handles – Used to translate (move)…
Managing Workspace Clutter Clutter in the Blender workspace can make it difficult to work efficiently. Here are some tips for managing workspace clutter: Use collections to organize objects – Collections allow you to group objects together and visibility toggle them as a group. This keeps the outliner clean. Clean up node editors frequently – Delete…
Hiding and Unhiding Panels Blender allows users to open and close different panels to customize the interface for their workflow. Hiding panels you don’t frequently use can declutter the viewport and interface. To hide a panel, right click on the edge of the panel and select “Hide Panel” from the menu. This will close the…
Hiding Panels to Save Screen Space Blender’s interface is highly customizable, with multiple reorderable panels available for modifying objects, sculptures, materials, textures and more. However, having all panels open at once can limit the 3D Viewport space. Luckily, Blender allows users to easily hide specific panels in order to maximize the 3D Viewport area. There…
Non-manifold geometry refers to meshes that contain irregularities that violate the mathematical definition of a 2-manifold. A 2-manifold mesh surface has well-defined inside and outside volumes with consistent face normals. Non-manifold meshes contain defects such as unmerged vertices, edges, disconnected surfaces and inconsistent face normals that cause problems for modeling operations like booleans. What is…