Hi ,
As a beginner, Iāve noticed there are many different approaches to reducing poly count after sculpting ā such as using Blenderās built-in Remesher (Voxel/Quadriflow), QuadRemesher, or RetopoFlow ā and then baking normal maps to preserve details.
What Iād like to know is: which single workflow should I focus on right now as a beginner, one that can be applied across different purposes (animation, game assets, 3D printing, etc.)? Iām trying to find a reliable approach that gives the best results in Blender without spreading myself too thin across too many methods.
Also, is it worth investing in paid add-ons like QuadRemesher or RetopoFlow, or should I stick with Blenderās built-in tools for now?
Thanks!
Well, I'm old school in that I like to have control of my mesh. The tools that totally automate the process are cool and all, but not really my cup of tea. And I don't even like tea, so a cup of tea is not really my cup of tea. So as a beginner I'd say you stick with good old fashion manual work, so you really get your head around good topology, it's like going to the gym for the brain. So to start I'd say first Blender built in tools and then once you fell you've gone through some proper bootcamp, then tools like RetopoFlow are a super great investment in that is a tool that gives you superpowers while letting you maintain control of your mesh.Ā
After you have dominion of your mesh, and you can make great topology with loops that flow perfectly, then you wont have any trouble if the asset is going to animation, game asset, 3D printing, etc. Those each require different specifications on the final result, but you'll be able to deliver those if you have focused on building the mesh yourself with proper topology.Ā
So to summarize, in my opinion, starting doing things manually the old way, with Blender built in stuff, building quad by quad, is what will give you the strongest foundations for everything else.Ā
I appreciate the way you explained it,Ā Iāll follow your advice and start with Blenderās built-in tools to understand topology basics first.
Thanks for taking the time to share your experience, it really helps!