Foundations of 3D Modelling in Blender

Packt via Coursera

Go to class Write review

Details

Go to class

Provider

Coursera
Pricing

Free Online Course (Audit)
Languages

English
Certificate

Paid Certificate Available
Duration & workload

14 hours 15 minutes
Sessions

On-Demand
Level

Beginner
Subtitles

English

Found in

Overview

Class Central Tips

Unlock the power of Blender and become a proficient 3D artist with this hands-on course designed to take you from beginner to advanced workflows. You will begin with an introduction to Blender’s interface, covering essential tools and references that help establish a strong foundation. Gradually, you’ll dive into modeling your first prop, learning the importance of modifiers, seams, and smooth shading. Along the way, you’ll discover the most efficient ways to create realistic textures using Blender’s built-in tools like Node Wrangler. As the course progresses, you will shift into more complex areas such as lighting, creating custom materials, and organizing assets with Blender's asset manager. You’ll explore advanced techniques like using trim sheets for texturing, the solidify modifier for creating 3D objects from 2D planes, and the grease pencil for ornamental designs. The course also delves into adding realistic wear and tear to your models, ensuring your creations have a professional finish. By the end of this course, you'll have the skills to create intricate models such as treasure chests, barrels, scrolls, and more. You'll not only understand how to build and texture these props, but you'll also master advanced features like displacement and complex curve creation. This course ensures that every project you complete in Blender will be detailed, polished, and ready for any 3D game or animation environment. This course is ideal for aspiring 3D artists, game developers, and hobbyists who want to learn or improve their skills in Blender. Basic computer skills are recommended, but no prior experience in 3D modeling is required.

Syllabus

Download Pack and Blender Basics

In this module, we will go over the resources provided with the course, including texture maps and materials. We will also introduce the Blender interface and demonstrate how to use references effectively to enhance 3D models, laying a strong foundation for the modeling process.

Basic Modelling Workflow

In this module, we will begin creating our first 3D model, starting with a simple table. We will introduce you to Blender's modifier system and guide you through completing the table model, establishing a workflow that will be used throughout the course.

Preparing Our Meshes for Texturing

In this module, we will focus on preparing 3D meshes for texturing. You will learn how to smooth your models, mark seams for effective unwrapping, and import texture maps using powerful Blender tools like Node Wrangler.

Working with Lighting in Blender

In this module, we will explore how lighting can drastically affect the presentation of your 3D models. You'll learn how to set up HDRI lighting to create immersive environments and how to use light sources to bring out the best details in your models.

Setting Up and Customizing Materials

In this module, we will dive into material creation and customization. You will learn how to set up materials for your models and how to modify texture maps to create unique visual effects using Blender’s powerful node system.

Setting Up Our Asset Manager

In this module, we will introduce you to Blender’s asset manager, a tool for organizing your 3D models and materials. You will learn how to efficiently store and access assets as you work through the course, improving your workflow.

Basic 3D Modelling Workflow

In this module, we will expand on your modeling skills by tackling the creation of simple assets, like a chair. You will also learn to troubleshoot common issues related to smoothing and UV unwrapping to improve your final models.

Mid-Level 3D Modelling Workflows

In this module, we will move into more advanced modeling techniques, including using modifiers like solidify and grease pencil. These tools will help you create more complex assets such as utensils and mug handles, pushing your 3D modeling skills to the next level.

Mid-Level Texturing Workflow

In this module, we will focus on mid-level texturing workflows. You will learn how to correct seam issues, build a robust asset library, and implement trim sheets to create more detailed and varied textures for your models.

Creating the Crown Jewels

In this module, we will create a set of crown jewel props, including gemstones and ornate goblets. You'll learn to use advanced Blender techniques like the array modifier and empties to create stunning, low-poly assets for your dungeon environment.

Working with Different Kinds of Texture Maps

In this module, we will work with various types of texture maps, including Atlas maps, and learn how to create complex props like books and paper. By combining smaller props, you’ll efficiently populate your 3D scene.

Barrels and Crates modelling

In this module, we will focus on the essential skills of creating barrels and crates. You’ll learn to simplify complex models, mark seams, and add wear and damage to props to create more realistic, game-ready assets.

Working with Water

In this module, we will create realistic water materials in Blender and finish the barrels and crates. These techniques will help you improve the quality of environmental assets and enhance your scenes with liquid effects.

Working with Decals

In this module, we will cover the process of importing and applying decals in Blender. You’ll learn how to add realistic details to props and objects, particularly on curved surfaces, using the shrink-wrap modifier.

Advanced Modelling Techniques

In this module, we will create advanced props such as detailed chests with metal supports. You’ll use bevel techniques to add realistic details, making your props suitable for use in any 3D environment or game scene.

Creating Treasure

In this module, we will create treasure assets, focusing on chest texturing and coin piles. You will use displacement and decimation techniques to optimize low-poly assets and fill scenes with highly detailed treasure.

Combining Props

In this module, we will bring together all the props created throughout the course and populate a treasure chest. You will finalize the scene, showcasing your collection of dungeon assets.

Working with More Complex Curves

In this module, we will focus on working with complex curves in Blender. You'll learn to create detailed scrolls, including torn edges and parchment rolls, adding depth to your prop creation process.

Creating More Complex Props

In this module, we will finalize complex scroll props by adding seals, stamps, and writing. You'll refine your 3D models, ensuring they are ready to be integrated into your 3D environments.