Efficient working with material layers in Maxon BodyPaint

Working with material textures in Maxon BodyPaint opens up a creative space for you to paint 3D models directly. This guide takes you through the various aspects of painting with material layers, which allow you to work non-destructively. You will learn how to use different textures simultaneously and make your workflow more efficient.

Main insights

• Materials and textures are fundamental for painting in BodyPaint.
• Using material layers allows for non-destructive work.
• Layers exist in various channels (e.g., color channel, relief channel), and you can use multiple at the same time.

Step-by-Step Guide

Create a New Material

Before you start painting, you need to create a material in BodyPaint. Go to the material manager and select “Create” > “New Material”. Double-click on the new material in the manager to create it.

Assign a Texture

To bind your materials to an object, you need a texture. Switch to the texture channel of your material and choose a suitable texture. Ideally, start with a solid color, as this serves as a base element for further painting work.

Activate the Color Channel

To apply color to your model, you activate the color channel. This channel is important because here you can apply different colors. If you are working with shiny materials, it is advisable to use diffusion for the surface to avoid unwanted shine.

Add a Relief Channel

For an additional 3D effect, you should create a relief channel. This is done by creating a new channel, which you start with a medium gray (value 128). This gives you a balanced base from which you can draw both elevations and depressions.

Paint Color in the Relief Channel

Ensure that the gray color is present in the relief channel before you start working with colors. It is important to distinguish between black and white color to create either a depression or an elevation. If you want to paint, switch to the relief channel and start drawing.

Simultaneous Painting in Multiple Channels

One of the most effective features is painting simultaneously in different channels. Activate the multi-selection option, so you can paint in both channels. This allows you to directly combine effects such as shadows and textures, significantly speeding up your workflow.

Create Layers

To work non-destructively, it is advisable to create layers. Click on the relevant commands and create your first empty layer. Here you can perform all painting operations without overwriting the original colors in the material channel.

Adjusting and Editing Layers

After you have created your layer, you can work with colors on this layer. If you are not satisfied with the result, you can always revert the changes or adjust the layer by changing the opacity and blending mode.

Duplicating Layers

For symmetrical work, duplicating layers is a valuable function. If you have made a design on one side, you can quickly transfer it to the other side by simply copying the layer.

Checking the Layers

To ensure that you are working correctly in each channel, look for the small white cross on your layer, indicating that no further layers exist here. Adding new layers allows you to make changes at any time.

Using the 3D Paint Mode

A look into the 3D Paint Mode shows you how the materials look in the 3D environment. Here you can also make interactive adjustments to ensure that your materials have been applied correctly.

Summary - Maxon BodyPaint for Non-Destructive Work with Material Layers

By creating materials, assigning textures, and using layers in Maxon BodyPaint, you can work efficiently and creatively. With the various channels and the possibility of working non-destructively, you have many pathways open to successfully design your projects.