Blender: Hard Surface Modeling

4h 26mIntermediate2017-10-24

Authors

Darrin Lile

Animator, Writer, and 3D Artist

Course details

Interested in using Blender to model hard surface objects like vehicles or machinery? Learn how to create realistic hard surfaces, such as the skid-steer loader featured in this course. Instructor Darrin Lile takes you step by step through a production workflow designed to ensure technical accuracy and maximize your design efficiency. He shows how to use the Blender Bevel and Path tools and proportional editing techniques to model the forms. Then he adds depth with the Solidify Modifier, smooths the mesh with Subdivision Surface Modifier, and replicates objects with the Array Modifier. Plus, learn to add lights and materials and render the scene for final presentation.

Learning objectives
Setting up reference images
Blocking basic forms
Modeling parts
Connecting forms
Adding modeling details
Lighting the scene
Adding materials and textures
Rendering the final scene

Skills covered

Blender3D AnimationRenderingMotion Graphics and VFX3D ModelingVisualization and Real-TimeAECProduct and ManufacturingAnimation and IllustrationDeep Dive (X:Y)

Concepts

Introduction

Welcome
Exercise files
What you should know

Establishing the Foundation Forms

Setting up reference images
Blocking in basic forms
Beginning the lift arms
Using the Boolean Modifier
Finishing the lift arms
Creating the bucket
Modeling the wheels
Modeling the operator cab
Creating the roof

Connecting Forms

Creating the base and rear plate
Modeling the rear cross bar
Creating the lift cylinders
Creating the rear door
Modeling the engine housing
Finishing the engine housing

Creating the Interior

Modeling the seat
Creating the steering controls
Creating the window grid
Modeling the door

Adding Details

Modeling tubes and pipes
Creating the tire treads
Modeling the lights and handgrip
Final modeling details

Materials, Textures, and Rendering

Lighting the scene
Creating base materials
Background images for reflections
Multiple materials and glass
Adding image textures
Creating a final render

Conclusion

Next steps