Introduction to Hard Surface Modelling

Learn how to model production-ready assets for CG Animation and VFX

In this course we will take you through the process of creating a model suitable for CG Animation and VFX. We’ll go from breaking down the initial asset brief, creating a moodboard and gathering reference, to blocking out the asset, creating production-ready topology and UVs, and then finalising the model for the next stage of the pipeline.

Through practical examples, this course will guide you through the modelling process and the tools and techniques to that will allow you to work efficiently and effectively.

Course Details

Type: Online
Level: Beginner
Duration: 8 weeks
Format: Pre-recorded videos and weekly live feedback sessions
Assignments: Weekly & 1 final
Tools: Maya, ZBrush, Arnold
Prerequisites Basic Knowledge of Maya and ZBrush
Course Access Time: Lifetime

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Lessons in this course

01. Breaking down the brief, moodboards and modelling tools

In this lesson, we’ll break down the asset brief, create a moodboard, gather reference, and then set up our Modelling environment. We’ll then look at some of the more useful modelling tools that will allow us to model efficiently.
02. Blocking out the asset and modelling techniques

Using basic primitives and kitbashing techniques, this lesson will demonstrate how to go about blocking out the asset. We’ll also cover using NURBs effectively and boolean tools in Maya and ZBrush.
03. Maya modelling tools for clean topology

With the asset blocked out, we’ll move on to looking at the topology tools to create deformable geometry. We will also see how to use the curve tools, the sculpting tools and Mash networks..
04. Working with deformers

This lesson will run through how to go about using Deformers to push your design without destroying the topology. We’ll cover Lattices, wrap and wire deformers and also introduce you to motion paths and blendshapes.
05. Adding sculpt details and refining the model

With the asset fleshed out and coming along, we’ll dive into how you can go about adding edge detailing, ZBrush for additional surface detail.
Available on: 04.10.2020 10:00 am
06. Cleaning up the model

In this lesson, we’ll clean up the topology and the model hierarchy to ensure the asset is ready to be UVed.
Available on: 11.10.2020 10:00 am
07. UVing the asset

This lesson will cover how to go about creating production-ready UVs. We’ll cover the basics of UVs, UDIMs and resolution, cutting, sewing, unfolding, scale, and setting a sensible shell layout.
Available on: 18.10.2020 10:00 am
08. Finalising and presenting the model

Our final lesson will run through the steps to finalise the asset to ensure it is ready for texturing and look development. We’ll also go through the process of creating model turntable renders for review.
Available on: 25.10.2020 10:00 am

Tutor: Christopher Antoniou

Head of Assets

Our Head of Assets, Christopher Antoniou is an artist at heart, who aims to uplift and inspire others with his work. On his travels towards this goal, he has been working as an asset supervisor for advertising, tv and film. Chris is currently Head of Assets at DNEGTV and teaches at numerous educational institutes around the world.

Course Fee: £640

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Introduction to Hard Surface Modelling

This beginner-level course will introduce you to hard surface modelling techniques to create a production-ready asset.