Artist insight: 19 WORKFLOW TIPS FOR BLENDER

Brandon Hix and Kjartan Tysdal reveal how to optimise your workflow and boost your skills in Blender, the free tool for sculpting in 3D

- Brandon Hix and Kjartan Tysdal

Blender is a rare example of a high-calibre tool that’s dedicated to remaining free for everyone. Last year’s update of Blender to version 2.8 was a major step forward towards it becoming a more industry-compatible tool. We’re now up to version 2.83, which fine-tuned many of the new features brought in with the milestone 2.8 update, as well as providing a performance boost.

In the past, many artists have criticised the software’s steep learning curve and resisted incorporating Blender into their workflow. A completely overhauled user interface, a focus on real-time asset creation and many other innovations have artists industry-wide taking a second glance at moving over to Blender. Here are 19 tips to help you make the switch, revealing the power and flexibility of Blender.

1 SET UP BLENDER TO SUIT YOUR WORKFLOW

The latest version of Blender is brimming with updated features and changes designed to make your workflow more streamlined than ever. Most people never take advantage of the plethora of customisation options Blender comes bundled with to accommodate their ever-changing workflow. Start-up file preferences, hotkeys, UI themes – these are just some of the things you can alter. Everything from your workspace layout to which mouse button you use to select objects with can be changed in the user preferences found under Edit>Preferences.

2 USE INTERACTIVE WIDGETS WITH KEY TOOLS