SCHEDULE – 3 ONLINE CLASSES via Discord
- Date: October 18 – November 1
- Every Tuesday (for 3 weeks)
- Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm PST
- Location: online classes via Discord
IMPORTANT – This is an Intermediate-Level Workshop. Prior experience with Blender and VRChat is necessary. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call Otto directly at (619)354-3656 or email: otto@fxdojo.com
Class Description
So you want to make your own 3D characters? You have come to the right place! This 3-session class will guide you through a variety of modeling, rigging, and animation exercises to clarify proper procedures and build confidence. We'll be using Blender Version 3.3 to help reach your goal of creating animation with original characters and stories.
Rigging, demystified!
Compared to intuitive nature of setting keyframes for creating movement, the rigging process has always been intricate and convoluted. Over the decades, many solutions have emerged, but we offer a few workflows for young artists to experiment with.
Rigify is a default add-on shipped with Blender, and supports basic human and quadruped characters. The rigs generated with Rigify offer all the standard FK/IK controls with just a few clicks. But beware the dangers of quick fixes! FX Dojo teachers will always demonstrate and explain underlying basics before advocating any timesaving techniques. Rigify is an efficient solution that will not leapfrog important lessons.
AccuRIG is another option for automated rigging, and as a separate downloaded app, the departure from Blender might be worth access to its library of free and paid motions.
Implement Constraints and Parenting Relationships for Props
Understanding the difference between Constraints and Parenting is one of the first lessons to crack the mystery of rigging. Students will feel empowered with the ability to add props and weapons to original characters.
Say "AH" with Blender Shape Keys
Shape Keys serve as an excellent tool for teaching and creating essential motions like lip syncing and facial animation. The setup process is easy to understand while being consistent with other Blender menus and workflows.
T-Pose or A-Pose
If you already have a model that's ready to be animated, make sure it's arms are straightened out perpendicular to the body or angled down a little bit. This will make the rigging process much easier. If you don't have a character, that's fine too! We will discuss some modeling protocols to minimize problems after rigging. It is important to note that our decision to use solutions like Rigify and AccuRIG are to bypass weight painting and deformations. We'll address those topics in a different class.
All FX Dojo online classes take place via Discord, the popular chatroom app used by gamers worldwide. After registration, students will receive an email with simple instructions on how to prepare for class.
What you need:
- PC or Mac
- Reliable Internet connection
- Discord (free download)
- A Discord account (free)
- Blender version 3.3 (free)
- Prior experience with Blender - please call (619)354-3656 or email otto@fxdojo.com if you are unsure about your current level
Develop the discipline needed to succeed
Many students are tired of online classes, but staying focused on a computer is required in today's modern world. FX Dojo teachers provide a fun dose of creative screen time on a consistent basis. This gives young minds an example of how to use technology in a healthy way, showing art as an alternative to addictive social media and mind-numbing videogames. FX Dojo is committed to adapting and evolving Digital Art Education with the mental health of our next generation as a top priority. Please join us for these innovative online workshops!