How to Create a Car in Maya

Maya, a 3-D modeling program, allows users to create 3-dimensional objects. Learning to design realistic objects in Maya takes a great deal of practice and skill. Many users create blocky, unrealistic objects when they first learn Maya. Creating smooth, detailed objects takes persistence. Before creating a car in Maya, consider sketching the design of the car you wish to create. The better you understand the shape of the car, the easier it will be to create it in Maya.

Instructions

1. Click on the "View" button and scroll to "Options." Click on "Side View." Lay the curves of the car, starting with the body and moving onto the wheels. Click on the "Curves" button in the toolbar to access curves. Continue adjusting the curves until you have the shape you desire.

2. Add details using the "Curves" tool. You may wish to add panels, windows or lights.

3. Add curves to the Z-axis. Click "View" and scroll to "Settings." Select "Perspective Camera." Adjust the curves of the Z-axis until the car's body seems to have an appropriate shape.

4. Continue this process of adding curves to add details, if desired.

5. Create a reference mesh for the panels. Right click on the curves and scroll to "Reference Mesh." Adust the lines and curves of the lattice so that there at three to seven divisions.

6. Open the "Polygon Mesh." Adjust the shape of the polygon mesh until it is smooth.

References

• Maya Modeling
• 3DM3: Maya Modeling
• CG Arena: How to Build a Next Gen Game Car

Resources

• Car Body Design: Maya Tutorials