Process: Maya project folder ➡️ open asset folder ➡️ create rig folder ➡️ add model reference ➡️ use the Advanced Skeleton plugin ➡️ place the skeleton ➡️ match the position of bones and models ➡️ skinning ➡️ set up animation to paint weight ➡️ copy weights to clothes ➡️ export weight data backup ➡️ face rig ➡️ adjustment phase ➡️ special rig (in this model, chains, skirts, and shoes are bound using key drives) ➡️ done.
Character Rigging:
Rigging: The rigging process is generally consistent. First, create the skeleton based on the human or animal anatomy, placing bones in corresponding positions that match the model. Additionally, if there are other parts that need to move, create extra bones, such as dog ears, tails, and so on.
Skirt Rigging Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RzrETjZ7S1c
Dog Rigging Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=EZI0aVx9_As
Weight Painting: Then add animation, using the ngSkinTools plugin to paint weights while animating.
The layer and painting sequence for the human is: Torso ➡️ Shoulder ➡️ Upper Arm ➡️ Lower Arm ➡️ Cup ➡️ Thumb ➡️ Index ➡️ Middle ➡️ Ring ➡️ Pinky ➡️ Head ➡️ Hips ➡️ Calves
The layer and painting sequence for the dogs is: Torso ➡️ Back shoulder ➡️ Shoulder ➡️ Upper arm ➡️ Lower arm ➡️ Finger ➡️ Index ➡️ Middle ➡️ Ring ➡️ Pinky ➡️ Hip ➡️ Calves ➡️ Back finger ➡️ Index toe ➡️ Middle toe ➡️ Ring toe ➡️ Pinky toe ➡️ Tail ➡️ Neck ➡️ Ear
Finally, the rigging is completed.