Head Mesh Guidelines for Zbrush

This section explains the editing of the base mesh in ZBrush, covering prerequisites for subdivision levels, adjustments to model topology and polygon counts, as well as the editing or removal of default subtools. To ensure the best possible outcomes upon updating back to Character Creator (CC), it is advised to adhere to the guidelines presented below.

ClosedComplex Head Shapes

CC is designed to specifically support mesh shapes at the lowest subdivision in ZBrush. As a result, complex head mesh designs featuring intricate shapes at higher subdivision levels may lose fidelity. To ensure accurate and faithful shape representation in CC, it is strongly recommended to modify your mesh shape at SDiv 1. For incorporating intricate details into your base model and circumventing potential challenges during updates to CC, please consult this page.

  • ZBrush model at SDiv 1:

    ZBrush

    CC

  • ZBrush model at SDiv 6:

    ZBrush

    CC

ClosedModifying Mesh Topology and Polycount

The functionality of the Face Tools plugin hinges on topology and polygon data for model recognition and interoperability in ZBrush. Consequently, it is imperative to maintain consistent topology and polygon counts while editing models in ZBrush.

  • Mesh topology examples:

    Proper topology

    Incompatible topology

  • Polycount:

    Proper polycount

    Incompatible polycount

ClosedRenaming or Removing Default Subtools

After updating the model from ZBrush to CC, modifying the default subtool names or removing them can lead to model incompatibility with the Face Tools plugin. Therefore, it is crucial to leave the default names as is and refrain from deleting any of the subtools.

Visit the FAQ page for additional insights into various scenarios that may result in the renaming of your subtools.

The CC character in ZBrush has a total of 8 default subtools.

Subtools Name List

1

CC_Base_Eye

5

CC_Base_SkinHead

2

CC_Base_EyeOcclusion

6

CC_Base_TearLine

3

CC_Base_EyeOcclusion

7

CC_Base_Tongue

4

CC_Base_Lower_Teeth

8

CC_Base_Upper_Teeth

When adding additional subtools to the project, avoid giving them names that are similar (including titles with "CC_") or identical to the CC subtools. Such similarities in naming can potentially hinder the plugin's ability to correctly identify the appropriate subtools for updates in CC.

Suitable Subtool name

Unsuitable Subtool name

Unsuitable Subtool name

Closed Note:
  • “CC_Base_TearLine” and “CC_Base_EyeOcclusion” models can be kept depending on the level of realism you are aiming for. However, when creating a cartoon-style character, keeping these subtools is not essential and removing them can streamline the transition between ZBrush and CC4.
  • “CC_Base_TearLine” and “CC_Base_EyeOcclusion” in Zbrush:

    With Subtools in CC

    Without Subtools in CC

  • When utilizing the Face Tools plugin to transfer your character model with incorrect specifications between ZBrush and CC, a dialog box will prompt you with a notification indicating its incompatibility.

  • For additional insights into various scenarios that may have led to the unexpected renaming of your subtools, please refer to the FAQ page.