How do you merge meshes in 3ds Max?

In 3ds Max, a common method to merge meshes is by using the Attach function on an Editable Mesh or Editable Poly object. This process permanently joins separate objects into a single mesh.

When you need to combine multiple 3D objects into one unified mesh in 3ds Max, the Attach tool is a powerful feature built into the software's core modeling capabilities. This allows you to consolidate various geometric elements, making them a single entity for easier manipulation, texturing, or exporting.

Using the Attach Button to Fuse Objects

As highlighted in the reference, one of the primary ways to merge objects in 3ds Max is by utilizing the Attach button within the Modify panel. This method is suitable for combining objects that you want to become a single, continuous mesh.

Reference Information: Use the Attach button to permanently fuse or join objects: With a single Editable Mesh or Editable Poly object selected, go to the Command Panel Modify Edit Geometry Attach button. This will allow you to pick single or multiple objects to attach into a single object.

Here's a breakdown of the process:

Steps to Attach Objects:

1. Select an Object: Start by selecting one of the objects you wish to merge. This object will serve as the base, and other objects will be attached to it.
2. Access Modify Panel: Go to the Command Panel on the right side of the 3ds Max interface.
3. Apply Editable Mesh/Poly: Ensure the selected object is either an Editable Mesh or an Editable Poly. If it's a primitive or another object type, you'll need to convert it first (right-click the object, then choose "Convert To" -> "Convert to Editable Poly" or "Convert to Editable Mesh").
4. Find Edit Geometry: Within the Modify panel, expand the Edit Geometry rollout.
5. Click Attach: Locate and click the Attach button.
6. Pick Objects to Attach: Your cursor will change. Click on the other objects in your scene that you want to merge with the initially selected object. You can click on objects one by one, or use a selection box to pick multiple objects simultaneously.
7. Finish Attaching: Once you have clicked on all the objects you want to merge, click the Attach button again (or right-click in the viewport) to exit the Attach mode.

This process permanently fuses the selected objects into the base object, resulting in a single mesh that can be edited as one.

Summary Table: Attach Method

Feature	Description	Location	Effect
Attach Button	Tool to combine selected objects into a single mesh	Command Panel > Modify > Edit Geometry (under Editable Mesh/Poly)	Permanently fuses/joins selected objects

Using the Attach function is essential for streamlining your scene, reducing the number of individual objects, and preparing models for rigging, animation, or export.