ZBrush Tip: PolyGroup Crease Workflow for Sharp Subdivision Edges

Keep hard edges razor-sharp through subdivision by creasing at PolyGroup borders. Here’s a focused workflow that’s fast, controllable, and non-destructive.

• Prepare PolyGroups:
  • Assign clear PolyGroups first (Polygroups > Auto Groups, Group by Normals, or PolyGroupIt).
  • For manual control, mask areas and use PolyGroups > Group Masked / Group Visible.
  • Use Polygroups > Group Front to isolate facing panels for quick paneling workflows.
• Crease by PolyGroup:
  • Go to Tool > Geometry > Crease > Crease PG. This places creases along every PolyGroup border.
  • Subdivide (Tool > Geometry > Divide with Smt on) and evaluate the result.
• Control sharpness with Crease Level:
  • Use Geometry > Crease > Crease Level to set how many subdivision levels a crease stays fully sharp.
  • Example: Crease Level 2 + 5 total subdivisions = crisp for the first 2, then gently softens after, ideal for manufactured bevels.
• Dynamic preview and bevel feel:
  • Enable Geometry > Dynamic Subdiv to preview without adding real geometry.
  • Combine creases with QGrid to simulate production-ready chamfers; adjust Coverage to tune bevel width.
• Refine selectively:
  • Use ZModeler (Edge action > Crease > Target: PolyGroup Border or Edge Loop Complete) to add/remove creases locally.
  • Geometry > Crease > Uncrease All removes all creases if you need to reset and reapply.

Why this works

• It’s topology-aware: edges between PolyGroups define your “design intent.”
• It’s non-destructive: tweak PolyGroups or Crease Level at any time as your concept evolves.
• It’s fast: one click (Crease PG) sets consistent, production-grade edge behavior across an entire subtool.

Pro tips

• Before Crease PG, run ZRemesher for cleaner, quad-dominant loops that subdivide predictably.
• Avoid tiny, accidental PolyGroups—merge or clean them to prevent micro-creases and pinching.
• For panel lines, SliceCurve or Knife brushes + quick PolyGroup assignment + Crease PG = crisp seams instantly.
• Pair with Panel Loops when you need actual geometry thickness; keep Crease PG for preserving edge definition.
• When preparing high-poly for baking, use Crease Level to dial in just a hint of softening for more natural bakes.

Troubleshooting

• Pinching at corners: ensure clean quad intersections; add supporting loops with ZModeler if needed.
• Edges too knife-sharp: lower Crease Level or add one extra subdivision after the crease relaxes.
• Jagged borders after Crease PG: re-check PolyGroups (Polygroups > Group by Normals with a sensible angle), then reapply.

Pipeline note: Creases don’t export as geometry; they control how ZBrush subdivides. Use them to generate your high-res, then export meshes/maps. For licenses, upgrades, and expert advice on ZBrush and companion tools, connect with NOVEDGE. You can also explore ZBrush solutions curated by NOVEDGE here.