Chapter 2
Mastering sculpting begins with mastering observation. In this chapter, you’ll step into the mindset of a digital sculptor by tackling a deceptively simple subject: a bowl of fruit. From the soft curves of grapes to the wrinkled texture of a lemon peel, you’ll learn how to analyze form, apply surface detail, and explore a range of workflows using DynaMesh, ZRemesher, radial symmetry, mesh extraction, alphas, and more. This isn’t just about fruit—it’s about training your eye, refining your technique, and learning to translate real-world reference into expressive digital form.
Every object in the scene presents its own unique challenge, and each sculpt introduces a different ZBrush toolset that you’ll return to again and again throughout the book. Think of this chapter as a controlled environment for building muscle memory. You’ll gain confidence through repetition, experimentation, and problem solving—core skills that will serve you well no matter what you sculpt next. By the end, you’ll not only have a finished still life, but a stronger grasp of how to make ZBrush work for you.
Ryan Darling
Chapter 2 – Getting Started with ZBrush
Chapter OVERVIEW
Foundational sculpting techniques using still life as subject matter: the classic “bowl of fruit” study
Training your eye to observe real-world form, proportion, and silhouette
Blocking in forms using DynaMesh and sculpting with gesture in mind
Using radial symmetry for repetitive shapes like grapes and apples
Introduction to mesh extraction to build custom shapes (e.g., the bowl)
How to apply and customize alphas to create organic surface detail
Introductory use of ZRemesher for cleaning up geometry
Brush breakdown: Move, ClayBuildup, DamStandard, TrimDynamic, Inflate, and more
How to isolate objects with Polygroups and basic SubTool management
Exploring a modular, tool-based approach to sculpting fruit as separate studies.
This chapter is designed to build your sculpting instincts by grounding you in a relatable, observational exercise. You'll not only get hands-on experience with ZBrush’s most essential tools - you’ll also begin developing a workflow mindset that can be applied to any subject matter.
