Chain Links (Jewellery/Jewelry)

Description

Chains and other jewellery/jewelry items that make heavy use of duplication often result in FBX (XMF) files that are too big to import into IMVU; all the excessive mesh detail used to describe each link adds up, producing a file larger than IMVU’s 2 MB per-item limit. If chains are to have individual links modelled it is best to keep detail as low as possible so they describe the outline or profile of a link in a way that does not necessitate the use of heavy subdivision. Shown above are two ways individual chain links can be easily made from a Plain (Add » Mesh » Plain) in Blender that keeps the number of faces to a minimum whilst maintaining the general rounded profile (subject to chain length and complexity).

Video I

After placing a standard Plain mesh – Add » Mesh » Plain – its first edited to place some loop cuts to shape the basic template for the link. Once done another loop can be placed around the middle that’s manipulated to form a convex profile that’s then duplicated and mirrored to form the back. Once the basic structure is in place it can be UV unwrapped and mapped ready for further use.

Video II

In the second video the same process is used but to create a more complex ‘Chanel’ stylised anchor link. For this more loop cuts are placed to semi-isolate the centre so it can be formed into the an island or pillar, either side of which is the eyelet.

Duration: c. 30 mins mins (30:00).
Info: 1080p.
Source: KatsBits – chains (ZIP c. 200 KB – *.blend).
Product ID: n/a

Design note: chains by their nature are complex shapes that require a lot of structure to describe their general appearance so keep the following in mind;

Optimisation

When used extensively, to create an necklace for example, this can lead to extremely polygon heavy objects that may not import into IMVU. An alternative approach to making chains, especially for IMVU Studio, is to use single plains for simple detail or crossed plains that make use of normal maps, in other words, when making jewellery it’s important to pay attention to how detailed meshes end up being, chains and similar types of jewellery are notorious for being unnecessarily higher resolution than they need to be, especially where normal maps are available. Always use the least dense/complex mesh possible.

Shown above are different iterations of the same basic link, low resolution to high resolution. If 3D structure is needed always aim to use the lowest or least complex version, especially where normal maps can be utilised.

Timestamps

Times are approximate;
– n/a