Modeling Tutorials

The tutorials in this chapter will introduce you to modeling in 3ds Max.

Modeling in 3D can be likened to sculpting. Many different techniques can be used to create the objects in your scene. The techniques you learn are adaptable to any style of modeling you need to perform. For instance, if you're building models that will be incorporated into a game, you'll be most interested in low polygon modeling techniques. The same techniques will be equally beneficial when building highly detailed models for architectural presentations or motion pictures.

The tutorials in this section are geared for the beginning-to intermediate-level modeler. Each tutorial takes from 30 minutes to several hours to complete.

Beyond modeling techniques, the tutorials also expose you to the Material Editor and show you how to apply materials to objects in your scene. That familiarity will help when you dive into the materials and mapping tutorials.

Features Covered in this Tutorial

Creating primitive objects
Using a modifier to alter an object's shape.
Creating and editing spline objects
Converting splines into geometry using modifiers
Setting up viewports with background images
Editing a model at sub-object levels
Features in Editable Poly
Using Merge and Xrefs to bring external objects in your scene

Files for This Section

All the files necessary for this tutorial are provided on the program disc in the \tutorials directory. Before starting the tutorials, copy the \tutorials folder from the disc to your local program installation.

Tutorials in this Section

Modeling a Space Scene

Modeling a Chess Set

Modeling an Apple

Creating a Realistic Hourglass

Modeling an Airplane

Refining the Airplane

Using the Edit Poly Modifier

Modeling a Low-Poly Character

Modeling Level Design