Blender Scripting with Python: Automate Tasks, Write Helper Tools, and Procedurally Generate Models in Blender 4

Learn to automate tasks, develop custom extensions, and procedurally generate meshes in Blender. This book will show you how to streamline virtually every stage of the 3D modeling pipeline for your next game or animation project.

Start with a hands-on introduction to the Blender Python API and dive right into basics like loading/running scripts and turning hand-modelling steps into Python by capturing them in the Info Editor. Then experiment with Blender menu options, typing them into the Python console and watch things move in the viewport. You’ll also dissect with Blender-shipped add-ons and take advantage of built-in templates to quickly create new scripts. With a firm grasp of scripting basics, you'll start to develop your own add-ons for editing and generating models. Then add more advanced mesh edits like extrude and loop cut-and-slides to your script, and essentials for shaping mesh elements like merge, bevel, and so on. Putting it altogether, you’ll create an extension to procedurally generate stylized fire hydrants with parametric controls.

In addition to mesh editing, you’ll learn to develop production-quality extensions covering various stages of a 3D pipeline, such as retopology, UV mapping, texture painting, and more. Discover along the way how to implement just about any input widgets for your extension. Then package, distribute, and market your extensions through different channels, and produce impressive time-lapsed demos to showcase your procedural content generation (PCG) algorithms. Whether you are new to the Blender Python API or looking to take your add-ons to the next level, this book will support you in your journey in generating 3D content and automating your Blender workflow.

What You Will Learn 

● Develop add-ons for automating various stages of a 3D modeling pipeline

● Edit meshes with the Blender Python API and procedurally generate models.

● Master use of parametric controls in add-ons for mesh editing or procedural generation to govern the ranges and types of variation produced 

● Develop extensions complete with UI using various input methods, including drawing on meshes with the Grease Pencil.

● Make time-lapsed and interactive demos of your procedural content generation algorithms.

● Package, distribute, and market your Blender extensions through different channels.

Who This Book Is For

New and seasoned users of the Blender Python API, that have either some experience with Blender or some experience with general Python development.

Isabel Lupiani is a software engineer by day and maker by night, who enjoys handcrafting 3D models as much as procedurally generating them. She received her MS in Computer Science from Georgia Tech, and has worked at several game studios in the past as an AI engineer for PC/Xbox games. Isabel currently works as a Lead AI Engineer in the simulation industry.