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AVC 185 • Spring 2026

Week 4

Advanced Modifiers and Curve Modeling & Geometry Refinement & Animation Basics
February 09 – 11, 2026
← Week 3 Week 5 →

Week Overview

Monday covers this lecture covers essential 3D modeling modifiers including bevel, mirror, and subdivision surface, along with curve-based modeling techniques. Students learn the difference between procedural modifiers and destructive tools, and how to create convincing geometry with proper edge flow. Wednesday focuses on this lecture focused on refining 3D models through beveling and subdivision techniques, reviewing student projects with feedback on normals and geometry, and introducing camera animation for turnaround renders.

Bevel Modifier Mirror Modifier Subdivision Surface Curve Modeling Hard Surface Boolean Operations Beveling Subdivision Animation Normals Rendering Geometry
Monday
February 09, 2026

Advanced Modifiers and Curve Modeling

This lecture covers essential 3D modeling modifiers including bevel, mirror, and subdivision surface, along with curve-based modeling techniques. Students learn the difference between procedural modifiers and destructive tools, and how to create convincing geometry with proper edge flow.

Watch Full Lecture →
1
Modifier Fundamentals
0:00 Introduction and Setup
2:11 Modifiers vs Tools Overview
8:02 Setting Default Startup File
2
Bevel Techniques
9:43 Bevel Modifier Introduction
15:54 Bevel Demonstration and Examples
23:22 Bevel Parameters and Settings
33:36 Bevel Tool vs Modifier
40:00 Hard Surface Modeling Workflow
3
Mirror and Subdivision
1:05:26 Mirror Modifier Fundamentals
1:14:05 Mirror Modifier Advanced Settings
1:20:05 Subdivision Surface vs Bevel
4
Curve Modeling
1:34:36 Curves and Bezier Introduction
1:42:36 Drawing Curves in 3D Space
1:51:03 Curve to Tube Modifier
2:05:17 Pen Tool and Precise Curves
5
Boolean Operations
2:20:14 Boolean Modifier Introduction

Key Concepts

  • Modifiers are procedural and adjustable, tools are destructive but direct
  • Beveled edges create specular highlights for more convincing lighting
  • Mirror modifier requires proper origin placement and bisect settings
  • Subdivision surface and bevel are either-or strategies for smooth edges
  • Curves should be drawn in orthographic view for precision
  • Boolean operations require manifold geometry to function properly
Wednesday
February 11, 2026

Geometry Refinement & Animation Basics

This lecture focused on refining 3D models through beveling and subdivision techniques, reviewing student projects with feedback on normals and geometry, and introducing camera animation for turnaround renders.

Watch Full Lecture →
1
Setup and Introduction
0:00 Introduction and Setup
2
Student Project Reviews
14 projects
1:35 Student Feedback: Outdoor Scenes
23:52 Student Feedback: Indoor Scenes
57:10 Student Feedback: Advanced Projects
3
Advanced Modeling Techniques
1:56:54 Better Log Creation Tutorial
2:12:45 Improved Tree Building Techniques
2:22:50 Furniture Beveling and Rounding
4
Animation and Final Steps
2:25:55 Camera Animation and Movie Rendering
2:33:32 Assignment Overview and Resources

Key Concepts

  • Bevel modifier creates rounded edges on hard-surface objects
  • Subdivision surface modifier smooths organic shapes but requires good topology
  • Normal orientation determines face visibility and affects rendering
  • Back face culling settings differ between viewport and render
  • Camera rotation around empty objects creates turnaround animations
  • Procedural techniques allow non-destructive editing of complex geometry
  • Apply scale before using modifiers to ensure consistent results