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Part II: Working with Objects

Using Layers

So what does 3ds Max have in common with a wedding cake? The answer is layers. Layers provide a way to
separate scene objects into easy-to-select and easy-to-work-with groupings. These individual layers have
properties that can then be turned on and off.

Cross-Ref
Animation sequences also can be split into layers using the Animation Layers. You can learn more about these lay-
ers in Chapter 34, “Using Animation Layers, Modifiers, and Complex Controllers.” n

Using the Layer Manager
You create, access, and manage layers through the Layer Manager dialog box, shown in Figure 6.16. This
dialog box is a floater that can remain open as you work with objects in the viewports. You can access the
Layer Manager using the Tools ➪ Manage Layers menu command, by clicking the Layer Manager button on
the main toolbar, or by clicking the same button in the Layers toolbar.
Cross-Ref
These layers are different from Animation Layers that are used to break an animation sequence into several differ-
ent parts that can be blended together. Animation Layers are covered in Chapter 34, “Using Animation Layers,
Modifiers, and Complex Controllers.” n

FIGURE 6.16
The Layer Manager lists all the layers and the objects contained within each layer.

After you’ve set up your layers, you can control them using the Layers toolbar, shown in Figure 6.17, rather
than having the Layer Manager open. You can access the Layers toolbar by right-clicking the main toolbar
away from the buttons and selecting the Layers toolbar from the pop-up menu or by selecting the
Customize ➪ Show UI ➪ Floating Toolbars menu command.

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