Normal maps are widely used in games to make low poly models look high poly. In this tutorial you will learn how to create a high res Skull model, generate a normal map from that model and learn how to apply this to its low poly version.

Techniques covered in this tutorial include multires sculpting, baking a normal map, baking ambient occlusion and applying the maps to a low poly model.

This tutorial uses the free and open source Blender suite. If you’re new to 3D, following this tutorial in Blender is an excellent way for beginners to get started. (Don’t worry – this tutorial has plenty of techniques for more advanced users too!)

A beginner book that covers the basics of Blender in a classroom format. 22 chapters with exercises designed to be completed in 1-2 one-hour class periods. Chapters are kept short (1-4 pages for most) and designed to only cover more commonly used features to get you “up-and-running” and comfortable with Blender. 146 pages. Free for use. The book can be downloaded as a complete pdf file or downloaded as individual chapters from the Central Dauphin High School Website.