What you'll learn

In this series of Maya tutorials, we will create a stylized male model in Maya from scratch. A lot of modeling these days is done in applications like ZBrush or Mudbox, where highly-detailed characters and creatures are a common sight. But all-in-one 3D applications like Maya are still great tools for building stylized characters. In this course, we will go step by step through the process of creating a 3D model based on the finished product of the Creating Stylized Male Character Concepts course. We will start by using reference images as a guide and then proceed to use Maya's powerful modeling tools to build all of the geometry for our model. By splitting edges, inserting edge loops, and extruding faces, we'll build the head of the character, create the suit jacket, pants, and shoes. We'll use NURBS to build the eyes and some of the accessories. We'll learn to build the hands of the character by combining pieces of geometry. In addition, we'll also add materials to our character and learn to add texture with ramps. We'll talk about UVs and use Mudbox to paint a quick texture map for the head. We'll also create and texture the character's hair. In the end, you'll have a nice, stylized character model and be able to apply what you've learned to your own custom characters. If you're brand new to Maya, try the introduction to Maya 2013 tutorial first, as well as the Introduction to Modeling in Maya. Software required: Maya 2013, Mudbox 2013.