8 Tips for Clean Topology [free, promoted]

pavla writes:

Getting started with Blender can be a bit daunting. So many tools and techniques, new terminology...eventually, everyone runs into a problem with mesh topology.

What could go wrong? You combine one too many faces or vertices or end up with a wonky-looking mesh. Don't worry, this happens even to professional Blender artists.

But here's why clean topology is crucial. Topology that follows proper curves and shapes not only looks great but also helps to properly UV unwrap for texturing. Improper topology sticks out under the unforgiving lights and shines brightly on all the imperfections of your digital creation.

What's more, clean topology is essential for animation and game asset creation. Bend a character's arm with bad topology and suddenly it looks like a the stuff of nightmares. Thankfully, here at CGCookie we've been through this process many times and understand how to resolve common topology issues.

8 Tips For Great Blender Topology

1. Understand Common Mesh Tools
This is an obvious tip, but one that everyone venturing into 3d modeling in Blender needs to become proficient in.

When modeling, understanding how to properly add/remove/modify the mesh s the most important aspect. After all, 3d modeling is all about conforming faces/edges/vertices to form a visually pleasing shape.

So let's take a look at some of the most common types of tools you'll use when modeling. (Note that most of these tools can only be accessed when in edit mode in Blender (Tab to toggle).)

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