ZBrush Tip: Convert ZBrush Primitives to PolyMesh3D Before Sculpting

Quick reminder: before you sculpt or remesh, convert ZBrush’s 3D primitives to a true editable mesh with Make PolyMesh3D.

Why it matters:

• Full sculpt pipeline unlocks only after conversion: Dynamesh, ZRemesher, Sculptris Pro, Subdivision Levels, Layers, UV Master, Polypaint, and Surface Noise.
• Avoids “This is a 3D primitive” warnings and grayed-out options mid-session.
• Ensures compatible exports for GoZ/FBX/OBJ and reliable map baking workflows.

How to convert (fast):

• Select a parametric primitive (Sphere3D, Cube3D, Cylinder3D) from Tool or LightBox.
• Draw it on canvas, press T (Edit) to enter 3D Edit mode.
• Tool > Make PolyMesh3D. ZBrush creates a new tool (e.g., PM3D_Sphere3D) ready for sculpting.

Best practices before conversion:

• Set shape parameters in Tool > Initialize while it’s still a primitive (segments, coverage, inner radius, etc.).
• If you want to keep a “parametric” version for later changes, use Tool > Clone or save a copy before converting.
• Choose higher segment counts only if needed; keep it light and rely on Dynamesh or Subdivisions post-conversion for detail.

Workflow accelerators:

• Assign a hotkey: Preferences > Hotkeys, Ctrl+Alt-click Make PolyMesh3D, press your key, then Store.
• Start from ready-made PolyMesh bases (LightBox > Tools, e.g., Dynamesh Sphere) to bypass the conversion step entirely.
• Immediately after conversion, establish a clean foundation:
  • Polygroups > Auto Groups or Group by Normals for logical selection blocks.
  • Geometry > Dynamesh to prepare for broad form exploration.
  • Add Subdivision Levels only once primary shapes read well.

Troubleshooting cues:

• If Dynamesh, ZRemesher, UV Master, or Layers are disabled, you’re likely on a primitive—convert first.
• If exported meshes behave oddly in other DCCs, confirm the tool name starts with PM3D_ (a good hint it’s a PolyMesh).
• Imported OBJs/FBXs are already PolyMeshes; the conversion step mainly applies to ZBrush-native 3D primitives.

Pipeline notes:

• Live Boolean’s Make Boolean Mesh outputs a PolyMesh; no extra conversion required.
• Use Project All after retopology to recover high-frequency details from your PolyMesh source.
• For map baking (Normal/Displacement/AO), keep everything as PolyMesh and leverage Multi Map Exporter.

Pro tip: build a startup habit—convert immediately after placing your primitive. It prevents feature lockouts and keeps you focused on form, not dialog prompts.

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