CG Form - 3D Modelling with Lightwave

Bezier Tool - Numeric Panel Options

The Numeric Panel for the Bezier Tool can be used to adjust the 'Subdivision Level', which is set quite high by default. It also allows you to create 'Open' and 'Closed Curves'.

The Bezier Tool creates a new spline between each Node. Because of this, you may need to select and merge splines ('SHIFT + Z' Key) before performing some operations, such as a 'Rail Extrude'.

Note: Use the 'CONTROL Key' to drag both Tangent Handles simultaneously.

Create > Elements > Bezier

Spline Curves - Spline Draw

The Spline Draw Tool Numeric Panel allows you set 'Start' and 'End Control' Points. Also useful is the ability to adjust the number of 'Curve Points' to control the smoothness of the curve.

Note: If you need to increase the number of 'Curve Points' but want to maintain the shape of the original Curve, it's better to enter a numerical value in the input field, rather than using the mini slider (see: 'Curve Points' in the Numeric Panel).

If you use the Slider, you'll end up with a number of incremental changes, which may effect the flow of the Curve.

Create > Elements > Spline Draw

Spline Curves - Make Open/Closed Curve

Learning to model with Splines is a great asset, especially when working with curved, organic shaped objects.

There are basically two types of Curves: 'Open Curves', with both Start and End Points (such as a curved line) and 'Closed Curves', which have no beginning or end (such as a circle).

For a good spline modeling course visit 'Larry' the God of Splines: http://www.splinegod.com

Create > Elements > Make Open Curve (CTRL + O Key)
Create > Elements > Make Closed Curve (CTRL + P Key)

Spline Curves - Curve Direction, Control Points

When you select a Curve you'll notice the end with the little Yellow Square which indicates the Start of the Curve. Use the 'f' key to Flip the direction of the Curve, if required.

Adding 'Control Points' can be useful to adjust the incoming and outgoing tension of a Curve.

Detail > Curves > Begin Control Point On/OFF (CTRL + B Key)
Detail > Curves > End Control Point On/OFF (CTRL + N Key)

Spline Curves - Smooth

If two or more Curves share the same End Point, you can use 'Smooth' to help create a more even and rounded flow between Curves.

Note: You need to make sure that they do share the same 'single' End Point. If not select and Merge to Points.

Detail > Curves > Smooth (CTRL + S Key)
Construct > Convert > Freeze (CTRL + D Key)

The Lathe Tool - Step 1

The Lathe Tool can be used to create Symmetrical objects like glasses, lampshades and door knobs.

Start by using an Open Curve to create the profile for one side of the intended object. In this case, a glass. Work in one of the Orthogonal Viewports and make sure that the start an end Points are aligned to the same axis (use Set Value), or you'll end up with a hole in the centre of the final object.

Use the Drag Tool to push individual Points and tweak the flow of the Curve.

Multiply > Extend > Lathe

The Lathe Tool - Step 2

Try to keep the number on Points in the curve to a minimum as these can multiply quickly when using the Lathe Tool. This will also depend on the number of 'Sides' set in the Lathe Tool Numeric Panel.

When your happy with the curve, use the 'Lathe Tool' to finish it off. Remember to drag along the centre axis, in the direction of the Curve, or you'll end up with inward facing Polygons.

Spline Curves - Split

The 'Split Tool' can also be used to split Spline Curves. First you'll need to select the Curve, then switch to Point Selection Mode, and select the Point, before you can apply the Split Tool.

Construct > Subdivide > Split (CTRL + L Key)
Detail > Curves > Smooth (CTRL + S Key)

Splines - Without the Curves

If you need to create Splines without the curves, simply select the centre Point and 'Split'.