ZBrush Tip: Split Masked Regions into New SubTools for Non‑Destructive Editing

Need to peel a part from your sculpt fast? Split your mask into a new SubTool for clean, controllable edits and non-destructive iteration.

• Mask precisely
  • Hold Ctrl to paint the mask; Ctrl+Click on empty canvas to blur, Ctrl+Alt+Click to sharpen.
  • For crisp borders before the split, run Tool > Polygroups > Group By Mask and Polish By Features (low values) to stabilize edges.
• Check visibility vs mask
  • Use Split Masked Points when your selection is a mask.
  • Use Split Hidden when your selection is driven by visibility (Ctrl+Shift isolate, hide the rest).
• Perform the split
  • Go to Tool > SubTool > Split > Split Masked Points.
  • If you have Subdivision Levels, switch to the lowest level first. If ZBrush prompts to delete higher or lower levels, consider duplicating the SubTool to preserve them, or use Project All after the split.
• Post-split cleanup
  • Splitting creates open borders where the cut occurred. If you need thickness, try Geometry > EdgeLoop > Panel Loops or use Extract for a shelled result.
  • For watertight outputs (3D printing), close borders with Geometry > Modify Topology > Close Holes, then remesh or ZRemesh for clean edge flow.
• Organize and transform
  • Immediately rename the new part (SubTool > Rename) and set a clear PolyGroup color (Ctrl+W) for management.
  • Use Gizmo 3D with Deformer options, or Transform > S.Pivot for accurate pivots before moving the new SubTool.

Pro tips to keep this workflow robust:

• Multiple regions at once: Create several masked islands, run Group Masked, then Split > Group Split to break everything into separate SubTools in one go.
• Preserve detail: After splitting a low-res base, subdivide and run Tool > SubTool > Project > Project All from the original to recover high-frequency detail.
• Hard-surface seams: After a split, sharpen borders with Crease by PG and preview with Dynamic Subdiv for panel-like results.
• Symmetry awareness: If the mask crosses center and yields two halves, use Mirror and Weld on the new SubTool to consolidate.
• Memory management: Heavy splits can spike RAM. QuickSave, purge Undo History when safe, and consider Decimation Master before large structural operations.
• Hotkey it: Ctrl+Alt+Click the Split Masked Points button to bind a hotkey and make this a one-gesture operation.
• When to Extract instead: If you need a closed, offset shell (clothing, armor plates), Extract with a small Thickness and Smooth, then refine with HPolish/Trim.

Keep your sculpt modular: split, iterate, and recombine without committing too early. For licenses, upgrades, and expert guidance on Maxon ZBrush, check out NOVEDGE. Need help choosing the right configuration or plugin bundle? The team at NOVEDGE can assist you with tailored recommendations and purchasing options.