How To Move All Models In Zbrush As A Whole

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Post on Feb 10, 2025

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How To Move All Models In ZBrush As A Whole

Moving multiple models simultaneously in ZBrush isn't a single-button operation, but it's achievable through a few different methods. The best approach depends on how your models are organized within ZBrush. This guide covers several techniques to help you efficiently move all your models as a single unit.

Method 1: Using SubTools and the Transform Tool

This method is ideal if all your models are grouped as SubTools within a single Tool.

Steps:

1. Verify SubTool Grouping: Ensure all the models you want to move are listed as separate SubTools under the same main Tool. If they are separate Tools, you'll need to merge them (see Method 3).

2. Select All SubTools: In the SubTool palette, click the "Select All" button (it usually looks like a square with four smaller squares inside). Alternatively, you can hold Shift and click on each SubTool individually.

3. Activate Transform Tool: Select the "Move" tool (the arrow icon) in the main ZBrush interface.

4. Move Your Models: Now you can use the Move tool to translate, rotate, or scale all selected SubTools simultaneously. The transformations will be applied to each SubTool in relation to its original position within the scene.

Important Note: This method maintains the relative positions of your SubTools. If you want to move them as a perfectly unified group, with no spacing between models, consider using the "Unify" function (see below).

Method 2: Using the Transform Tool with a Single Selection (Careful Positioning Required)

If your models aren't grouped as SubTools, you need to strategically position them before using the Transform tool. This method is less efficient but works in a pinch.

Steps:

1. Precise Positioning: Arrange your models as closely as possible to ensure they move together as a cohesive unit.

2. Select One Model: Choose one model as your reference point. Select it in the SubTool palette.

3. Activate Transform Tool: Select the "Move" tool.

4. Move Your Model (and Hopefully the Rest): Move your selected model. Because you positioned them closely together, hopefully, the other models will follow, depending on the proximity to the selected model. This method isn't foolproof, so precise initial positioning is crucial.

Method 3: Merging SubTools for Unified Movement

For perfectly unified movement, merge your models into a single SubTool. This will treat them as a single, solid object. However, be aware that merging can make editing individual components more complex later on.

Steps:

1. Select All SubTools: In the SubTool palette, select all the models you want to merge.

2. Append or Merge: Use the "Append" or "Merge" functions in the SubTool palette. "Append" will add the models to the selected SubTool, while "Merge" will combine them into a single object, losing their individual SubTool status. Merge is typically preferable for this specific task.

3. Use the Transform Tool: Now, you can use the "Move" tool to easily move the merged model as a single unit.

Method 4: Using the Unify Function (for maintaining relative positions within a merged model)

If you want the models to move together whilst maintaining their individual relative positions, you can merge them (using Method 3) and then use the Unify function.

Steps:

1. Merge SubTools: Follow the steps in Method 3 to merge your subtools.

2. Activate Unify: While the merged subtool is selected, find the 'Unify' function usually within the geometry menu. This will create a single mesh, while the subtools retain their original positioning.

3. Move the Unified Model: Use the move tool to move this unified model as one unit.

Choosing the Right Method

The best method depends on your workflow and the level of control you need. Method 1 (SubTool manipulation) is generally the most efficient and convenient for maintaining individual model control, while Method 3 (merging) provides the most unified movement. Method 2 is a workaround best used only when merging isn't feasible. Method 4 (Unify) combines the benefits of merging and maintaining relative positions. Remember to save frequently to avoid accidental data loss.