Chapter 6

In this chapter, we explore how to take full control of ZBrush’s interface to match the way you think and work. Just like a sculptor rearranges their tools around the studio for maximum efficiency, you’ll learn how to tailor ZBrush’s UI to your creative process. Whether it’s simplifying menus, setting up custom hotkeys, or building a personalized brush palette, we’ll show you how to design a sculpting environment that feels like second nature - so the software gets out of the way and your ideas take center stage.

We’ll walk through everything from interface zones and screen real estate to advanced techniques like making your own IMM and VDM brushes, organizing Lightbox, and recording macros to automate your workflow. You’ll also learn how to create and manage scalable assets so your projects remain clean and efficient. By the end of this chapter, ZBrush will feel less like a maze and more like an extension of your hand - fluid, responsive, and entirely yours.

Ryan Darling

Chapter 6 | Customizing ZBrush

Chapter OVERVIEW

Introduction to customizing ZBrush for a more personalized and efficient sculpting workflow
Overview of why customization matters: speed, comfort, and tailoring the interface to your creative flow
Understanding the difference between UI, hotkeys, brushes, and macros
How to create and save a custom interface layout
Organizing and customizing menus, shelves, and buttons
Creating and assigning hotkeys for rapid access to tools and brushes
Managing and building custom brushes:
Insert Mesh (IMM), Curve, Alpha-based, and Vector Displacement (VDM) brushes
Streamlining workflow with Lightbox: project structure and asset navigation
Creating and using macros for repeatable tasks and tool automation
Saving and sharing your UI and custom assets across machines or teams
Common pitfalls in customization and how to recover default settings
Setting expectations: your setup will evolve with your sculpting skills—start simple and grow from there

This chapter empowers you to make ZBrush feel like your own. Customizing the interface, tools, and shortcuts isn’t just about preference—it’s about sculpting smarter, faster, and with more joy. Mastering this now unlocks a smoother experience in every future project.