Blender For Dummies, 3rd Edition

Learn 3D animation the easy way with this complete step-by-step guide

Blender For Dummies is the quick and easy guide to learning 3D modeling and animation using the popular, free, open source Blender software. You’ll learn how to create models, animate movement, and render well-lit scenes as you master the powerful features that rival the more expensive professional animation software. This third edition is updated to cover the latest features added in Blender, including digital sculpting with dynamic topology, rendering with the incredibly powerful Cycles renderer, and more advanced simulation tools. You’ll learn the shortcuts and tricks that make creating animation a reality for anyone at any level. The companion web site provides access to additional tutorials that give you the confidence you need to start animating quickly. This useful guide blends the functionality of a reference with the hands-on learning that develops your skills and understanding in a flash.

•  Create 3D objects with meshes, curves, and surfaces
• Add color, texture, shades, reflections, and transparencies
• Set your models in motion with animation and rigging
• Create expert-level scenes with lighting and camera placement

If you want to learn 3D animation, but don’t want to spend thousands of dollars getting started, Blender is just the solution you need. Blender For Dummies is the ultimate learning companion.

Table of Contents

Part I Getting Started with Blender
Chapter 1 Discovering Blender
Chapter 2 Understanding How Blender Thinks
Chapter 3 Getting Your Hands Dirty Working in Blender
Chapter 4 Working in Edit Mode and Object Mode

Part II Creating Detailed 3D Scenes
Chapter 5 Creating Anything You Can Imagine with Meshes
Chapter 6 Using Blender’s Non‐mesh Primitives
Chapter 7 Changing That Boring Gray Default Material
Chapter 8 Giving Models Texture
Chapter 9 Lighting and Environment

Part III Get Animated
Chapter 10 Animating Objects
Chapter 11 Discovering the Tools Used in Rigging
Chapter 12 Animating Object Deformations
Chapter 13 Letting Blender Do the Work for You

Part IV Sharing Your Work with the World
Chapter 14 Exporting and Rendering Scenes
Chapter 15 Compositing and Editing

Part V The Part of Tens
Chapter 16 Ten Problems (and Solutions) for Newbies
Chapter 17 Ten Tips for Working More Effectively in Blender
Chapter 18 Ten Excellent Community Resources