Bevel
Introduction​
The Bevel tool allows you to create smooth, rounded corners or chamfered edges on your mesh. It works by splitting selected edges or vertices into multiple new faces, adding detail and realism to hard-surface models.
Resources
Access guides on bevel profiles, segments, and limit methods.
Links
Explore Blender's Bevel tool and Bevel Modifier documentation.
Videos
Watch tutorials on hard-surface modeling and edge control.
Bevel Edges​
To bevel edges, select one or more edges and press Ctrl + B. Move your mouse to adjust the width (offset) of the bevel.
- Scroll Wheel: Increase or decrease the number of segments (roundness).
- P: Change the profile shape (0.5 is round, 1 is flat, lesas than 0.5 is concave).
Bevel Vertices​
To bevel vertices (corners), select one or more vertices and press Ctrl + Shift + B. This is useful for rounding off sharp corners on flat shapes.
Bevel Modifier​
For a non-destructive workflow, use the Bevel Modifier. This allows you to adjust bevel settings at any time without permanently altering the mesh geometry. It is often used in combination with "Auto Smooth" or "Shade Smooth" for high-quality hard-surface results.
Summary​
The Bevel tool is essential for removing infinite sharpness from digital edges, making them catch light more realistically.
Key Takeaways:
- Ctrl + B for edges, Ctrl + Shift + B for vertices.
- Use the scroll wheel to add segments for smoothness.
- The Bevel Modifier offers a non-destructive alternative.
Documentation for Methodology​
What to document when using Bevel
In Your Method Section​
Describe the application of bevels to soften edges or create specific profiles. Mention if the Bevel tool (destructive) or Bevel Modifier (non-destructive) was used.
In Your Decision Log​
Record the following when using this technique:
- Width/Offset value used
- Number of segments
- Profile shape (if non-standard)
- Limit method (e.g., Angle, Weight) if using the modifier
- Date performed
Verification​
Check that the bevels do not cause shading artifacts or overlapping geometry (clamping). Verify that the silhouette matches the reference object.
Common Limitations​
Beveling can create complex geometry (n-gons) at corners, which may cause shading issues or difficulties with further subdivision.
Example Methodology Statement​
"Edges of the modeled furniture were beveled using a 2mm offset and 3 segments to replicate the rounded corners observed in the reference photographs. A Bevel Modifier was applied with a limit angle of 30 degrees to ensure only sharp edges were affected."