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CHAPTER

Using the Graphite

Modeling Tools and

Painting with Objects

he previous chapter covered everything you need to know about model-
ing with polygons, but the problem with the polygon workflow is the IN THIS CHAPTER
Tping-pong effect of moving back and forth between the current model
and the Command Panel. Although you can float the Command Panel or even Working with the Graphite
use the quad menus to access most of these commands, the Max developers have Modeling tools
presented an entirely new workflow based on the new Ribbon interface. Using the Freeform tools
The Ribbon sits conveniently above the viewports, but you can pull off and float
any of the individual panels as needed. The Ribbon panels are dynamic, so only Selecting specific subobjects
those tools that work with the current selection are presented. This places the Painting with objects
tools you need right in front of you when you need them.
The Ribbon is populated with all the features for working with Editable Poly
objects that are found in the Command Panel. It also includes a large number of
brand-new tools for selecting and working with polygon objects. These tools col-
lectively are called the Graphite Modeling tools.
The Ribbon also is home to several new panels of tools that allow you to paint
deformations into your models, make unique selections, and select and paint
with objects using brushes. The best part of these new tools is that they all elimi-
nate the ping-pong effect. Our necks thank you, Autodesk.

Working with the Graphite
Modeling Tools

The Ribbon interface, shown in Figure 14.1, can be turned on and off using a
button on the main toolbar or using the Customize ➪ Show UI ➪ Show Ribbon
menu. When enabled, the button turns yellow and the Ribbon appears in the
same state it was in the last time it was opened. By double-clicking the Ribbon
title bar, you can switch among displaying just the top tabs; just the tabs and
panel titles; just the tabs, panel titles, and panel buttons; or the entire panel. This
is great if you want to keep the Ribbon around but hide most of the buttons.

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