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Split a mesh into subtools?

ZBrush Usage Questions
#1

Hello, first of all, let me say that I am somewhat new to zbrush, and I am slowly learning the basics so… the solution to my problem might be incredibly obvious x)

Here’s the thing: I have a model that I’d like to split in half so I can go higher on the polygon count of each section. How would I go to separate the upper body of my model from his lower body and have them turn into two separate subtools?

Basically I want two subtools separated by the belt.

Here’s a picture, for good measure: http://i.imgur.com/AkBIJ.jpg
(It was created with Zspheres).
I tried looking for a solution, but I can,t find something thorough enough for my level of knowledge : l

Is that possible?

Oh, and any advice and/or criticism wouldn’t hurt. ;I

#2

The first thing you need to know, is how to selectively hide parts of an active mesh or subtool:

http://www.pixologic.com/docs/index.php/Hiding_and_Showing_Model_Parts

This is the basic skill that will let you assign and manage polygroups, which in turn let you do many other things.

http://www.pixologic.com/docs/index.php/Polygroups

Once you know that, you can split a polygroup into a subtool, by using “Split hidden” in the subtool palette, or by polygrouping the parts you want to be separate subtools, and using the “Groups split” option.

Keep in mind, meshes that you want to be able to sculpt on continuously, should remain part of the same subtool, otherwise they become completely separate objects that cannot be worked on at the same time. So in your example, depending on what you want to do, the belt and the body might make logical subtools, but splitting the torso away from the legs might not be the best course of action. Use polygroups to help manage continuous meshes in a single subtool.

#3

Thank you for your help, I’ll take that into consideration.

I’ve already found somewhat of a workaround (I managed to split the mesh how I wanted, then applied HD Geometry to sculpt more details), but I’ll definitely take your route for my future creations, thanks.