how can i make this kind of braid in zbrush? thx in advance!
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For a geometric solution, you could explore a custom IM or IMM brush with a curve, the same way Zbrush makes those Zippers, segmented tubes, and straps and such:
http://pixologic.com/zbrush/features/insert-multi-mesh/
For a textural solution, you could try applying a repeating pattern down a tube, then converting that pattern to masking, and make use of the inflate deformation tool or apply the pattern as displacement. Your success with this will depend on how complicated the “tube” shape is.
It seems to me Im missing something more obvious, but it escapes me now. I’ll think about it.
OH yeah. If you dont mind a quick and dirty solution that may not be 100% accurate in some places, create a tube, like with one of the tube brushes, then draw the curve out and position it as you wish—spiral, coil etc.
Then apply a weave type surface noise. (Surface>Open Noise Plug> weave type pattern). Tweak the scale , positioning and bump factors until you get the results you want. Then subdivide you tube to high res and apply the surface noise as displacement. I did a quick test, and it looks pretty good from a distance.
If all else fails, you can manually paint the repeating braid pattern with a custom curve brush along a tube.