To curve a line in 3ds Max, you can use various methods, but one direct way involves utilizing NURBS curves, where you define the shape by placing points directly along the path of the curve.
Here is a step-by-step guide based on creating a NURBS Point Curve:
Creating a Curved Line with NURBS
Creating a curved line using the NURBS Point Curve method allows you to intuitively draw the shape you need by clicking points that lie directly on the intended curve.
- Go to the Create panel. This is where you access the tools for building objects in 3ds Max.
- Activate (Shapes), and choose NURBS Curves from the drop-down list. This filters the available shape types to show only NURBS curves, which are excellent for creating smooth, editable curves.
- Turn on Point Curve. By default, some curve types use Control Vertices (CVs) which influence the curve from a distance. 'Point Curve' mode means the points you click will lie directly on the path of the curve you are drawing, making it more like drawing with a pen.
- In a viewport, click and drag to create the first point, as well as the first curve segment. Release the mouse button to add the second point, and continue clicking to add more points and extend the curve. Each subsequent click (after the first click-and-drag) adds a new point on the curve.
- Adjust the curve's creation parameters. After drawing, you can often tweak settings like interpolation or smoothness in the Modify panel, although for a basic Point Curve drawn freehand, the shape is largely defined by the points you placed.
- (Optional.) You may find additional parameters or options become available depending on the complexity of the curve or later modification steps.
Following these steps will result in a smooth, curved line object in your 3ds Max scene, defined by the points you laid down. This line can then be further edited or used as a path for other modeling operations.
