3D Layers

From ZBrush Info

Layers allow for a non-linear workflow. Artists are able to work with a model at many different stages of development simultaneously. Artists can add details such as a reptile's skin scales then turn those details off and refine the major forms underlying them.

The Tool:Layers submenu manages layers.

• Each layer in the Tool:Layers list of layers functions as a single variant of the base mesh geometry.
• Layers allow creation of new subtools based on the difference between the base mesh and the mesh contained in a layer.
• Layers can be used to test out ideas for models, without committing to a single sculpt.

Create A New Layer

1. Set Tool: Geometry: SDiv to the resolution level you want to store the layer at. Please note, each layer is associated with a level of resolution.
2. Press Tool: Layers: Create

Layer Controls

Layers are stored on a per mesh basis.To apply layers to a model, the first thing to do is to get that model up on the screen and ensure you are in 3D Edit mode.

All models start with no layers defined. The base mesh is not a layer. To create new layers, use the Tool:Layer:New button.

All layers are in one of three states:

• The Live layer, if it exists, is the currently selected layer. The effects of this layer on the base mesh are shown onscreen. In addition, any sculpting done when there is a live layer affects only that layer; neither the base mesh nor any other layer is affected. The live layer is highlighted in green.
• A layer that is On does affect the appearance of the model onscreen, but sculpting does not affect an On layer. Layers that are ON have an eye icon in their title
• A layer that is Off does not affect the appearance of the model onscreen, and is not affected by any sculpting. Layers that are OFF do not have an eye icon in their title.

If you wish to bake the layer into your sculpt, simply press Tool::Layers:Delete.

If you want to remove the layer and the sculpting from your mesh, turn off the visibility of the layer by pressing the eye icon and then pressing Tool:Layers:Delete.

Erasing Layer Information

You can erase information in a Layer by using a morph target and the morph brush.

To do this take the following steps:

1. Turn off visibility for the layer you want to remove information from
2. Store a morph target by pressing Tool: Morph Target: Store MT
3. Select the morph brush
4. Turn the visibility back on for that layer
5. Paint out the area you want to remove