ZBrushCentral

Older lesson threads and scripting a mask in ZB

Does anyone know if there is another location for the ZScript lessons by davey? My searches often bring them up and although the posts are older, they still look useful. The only problem is the message code is fouled up and the images he refers to in the posts seem to be lost.

The other thing I wanted to ask about is about using ZScript to help me add a mask with more precision than I’m able to by hand. I know ZBrush is more organic and doesn’t focus on the exactness typically found in other 3D software. But I’ve started learning hard surface sculpting and I keep finding myself in a position where I want to create a mask starting at the center point of an object. I’m using the set pivot point to work with subtools and centering the side I want to work with on the canvas. But I always seem to be a little off when I try to drag a mask from center of the object.

So I started wondering if a ZScript could be created that lets me define how far from center I want the mask pulled, makes sure the object is centered on the canvas and then draws a mask with the current mask tool and the diameter I set. It should warn you if the mask tool selected isn’t the rectangle, circle or drag rectangle (the ones that can be pulled from center) and be able to use an alpha if you have one selected.

Anyone know if this is possible with ZScript? I’m thinking it should be but then again, I’m a noob and can barely tell the difference between my butt and an If/Then Loop.

I agree that many of Davey’s tutorials were very good but zscript has moved on and much of the stuff he did doesn’t work as it should in the latest versions of ZBrush. The best current resource for zscript is the online docs: http://www.pixologic.com/docs/index.php/ZScripting And if you have any questions then someone here will do their best to answer. :slight_smile:

As for your other question, yes, this is possible. I’ve attached a sample zscript. (Load this through the ZScript:Load button, then press ‘H’ on the keyboard so that the button and slider appear at the bottom of the interface.)

You may need to adjust this for your requirements. For example, it does not resize the model, simply places it in the center of the canvas (based on its pivot point). And the distance the mask is dragged is the diagonal drag.

Also, I don’t think it is possible to get the current Mask brush, so this can’t be reset - though you could reset to a specific brush.

HTH,