How to Make a 3D Model for VRChat

In the virtual reality platform VRChat, users can create and use custom 3D models to represent themselves. This is not just a technical challenge but also an opportunity to showcase creativity and individuality. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a 3D model suitable for VRChat using Blender, helping you stand out in the virtual world.

Installation and Preparation

First, ensure that you have both Blender and Unity installed, as VRChat models need to be imported via Unity. Blender is used for 3D modeling, and Unity is used for importing models into VRChat..

- Download Blender: Visit the Blender website, download, and install the latest version of Blender.

- Download Unity: Visit the Unity website, download, and install the recommended version (usually the Long-Term Support version provided by Unity Hub).

Creating the Base Model

When starting to create a model, it’s common to begin with a simple base model.

- Open Blender: Launch Blender and delete the default cube (select it and press X to delete).

- Add Base Geometry: Press Shift+A to open the Add menu, choose “Mesh,” and select “Cube” or “Sphere” as your base geometry. We’ll use a cube as an example.

- Adjust Base Geometry: Select the geometry and use the G (move), S (scale), and R (rotate) keys to adjust its position and size to roughly fit the character’s outline.

Refining the Model

Next, we need to refine the base model to better match the final character design.

- Switch to Edit Mode: Press Tab to switch to Edit Mode.

- Subdivide the Mesh: In Edit Mode, press A to select all vertices, then choose “Subdivide” from the left toolbar to add more detail to the mesh.

- Sculpt and Adjust: Use Blender’s sculpting tools to refine the model. You can add facial features, body details, and other elements to enhance the character’s appearance.

Adding Rigging and Skinning

To make your model perform various actions and expressions in VRChat, you need to add a skeleton and skin the model.

- Add Armature: In Object Mode, press Shift+A to add an armature.

- Adjust Armature Position: Use the G, S, and R keys to adjust the armature’s position and size to match the character’s structure.

- Bind Armature to Model: Select the character model, then Shift+select the armature. Press Ctrl+P to open the Parent menu and choose “Armature Deform” to bind the armature to the model.

Adding Materials and Textures

Next, we need to add materials and textures to the model to enhance its visual appeal.

- Create Material: In the Properties panel on the right, select the Material icon and click “New” to create a new material for the model.

- Set Textures: In the material settings, add image textures and import your texture files. Adjust the UV mapping to ensure the textures are correctly applied to the model.

Exporting to Unity

Once the model is complete, we need to export it to Unity for further processing and uploading to VRChat.

- Export Model: In Blender, go to “File” > “Export” > “FBX” to export the model in FBX format. Make sure to check “Selected Objects” and “Apply Transform.”

- Import into Unity: Launch Unity, create a new project, and drag the exported FBX file into the Unity Assets window.

Configuring and Uploading to VRChat

In Unity, we need to perform final configurations and upload the model to VRChat.

- Import VRChat SDK: Download the VRChat SDK from the VRChat website and import it into your Unity project.

- Configure Model Properties: Select the model and adjust the scale, collision, and animation controller settings in the Inspector panel.

- Upload Model: Log in to the VRChat SDK control panel and upload your model.

By following these steps, you can create a high-quality 3D model in Blender and import it into VRChat. If you need high-quality 3D textures and HDRIs for your models and virtual scenes, you can download them for free from [Relebook Textures](https://textures.relebook.com/). For beautiful 3D models, visit [Relebook 3D Models](https://3dmodels.relebook.com/), where you'll find a wide range of premium 3D resources. These resources will enhance the quality of your work, save you time, and help you shine in the virtual world.