Create Stunning 360-Degree Animated Characters with Cartoon Animator 4

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Selecting the Right Template Head
3. Adjusting the 360 Head Profile in Cartoon Animator
4. Applying a Template Head in Character Composer
5. Editing the Character Structure in Photoshop
6. Importing Custom Sprites and Replacing Template Ones
7. Tweaking the Bone Positioning
8. Refining the Facial Animation Results
9. Adding and Masking Hair Sprites
10. Saving and Testing the 360 Head

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore the use of the 360 head tool and how it can be used to Create rotatable heads for 2D characters. We will cover the process of selecting the right template head, adjusting the 360 head profile in Cartoon Animator, editing the character structure in Photoshop, importing custom sprites, replacing template ones, tweaking bone positioning, refining facial animation results, adding and masking hair sprites, and finally saving and testing the 360 head. So, let's dive in and learn how to create some super neat looking rotatable heads for your characters!

1. Selecting the Right Template Head

Before we begin, it's important to choose the right template head for your character. The template heads can be found in the G3 360 face tool folder under your main head folder. You have the option to either use one of the completed sample heads or start from scratch using the template heads. In this section, we will explore how to select the appropriate template head Based on the proportions and features of your character's face.

2. Adjusting the 360 Head Profile in Cartoon Animator

Once You have selected the template head, it's time to adjust the 360 head profile in Cartoon Animator. This step is crucial in order to ensure that the facial features of your character Align properly with the head template. In this section, we will guide you through the process of launching the character in Photoshop, hiding unnecessary folders, and making adjustments to the head bone folder and facial feature folders.

3. Applying a Template Head in Character Composer

To start the editing process, we will Apply a simple template head in Character Composer. This will allow us to explore the structure of the head in more depth. By applying a template head, we can understand the positioning of the yellow crosshair bone indicators on the head and the different sprite images within each facial feature folder. In this section, we will walk you through the process of applying a template head and understanding its structure.

4. Editing the Character Structure in Photoshop

The character structure in Photoshop consists of three main folders: RL Bone Human, RL Talking Head, and RL Image. In this section, we will focus on the RL Talking Head folder, which contains everything related to the 360 head. We will learn how to import custom sprites, replace template ones, and maintain the folder structure to make the editing process easier. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of aligning the facial sprites with the corresponding bone positions for optimal animation results.

5. Importing Custom Sprites and Replacing Template Ones

To customize your 360 head, it's necessary to import custom sprites and replace the template ones. This section will guide you through the process of duplicating the desired group in Photoshop and moving it to align with the template head. We will also discuss the importance of maintaining the folder structure for easy replacement of the template images. By replacing the template sprites, you can achieve a unique and personalized look for your character's head.

6. Tweaking the Bone Positioning

To ensure smooth and natural animation, it's essential to tweak the bone positioning. This step involves adjusting the alignment of the facial sprites with the corresponding bone positions in the head bone folder. By carefully aligning the sprites, you can achieve realistic facial expressions and movements. In this section, we will explain how to access the bone positioning editor and make necessary adjustments for optimal animation results.

7. Refining the Facial Animation Results

Once the bone positioning is complete, it's time to refine the facial animation results. In this section, we will discuss the Transform tab, which allows you to adjust the transform position of each sprite at different points. By fine-tuning the position of each sprite, you can achieve the desired facial expressions and movements. We will guide you through the process of refining the sprite positions, ensuring a smooth and realistic animation.

8. Adding and Masking Hair Sprites

To complete the 360 head, we will add and mask the hair sprites. This step involves adding an additional front hair sprite that will be masked when it leaves the border of the character's head. By masking the hair, you can create a more realistic look as the character rotates. We will explain how to add the hair sprite, resize and reposition it using the sprite editor, and mask the areas outside the border of the head. With this additional hair sprite, your character's head will look more dynamic and natural from different angles.

9. Saving and Testing the 360 Head

Once you have completed the customization of your 360 head, it's important to save your work. In this section, we will explain how to save the head in Cartoon Animator's custom section and under the head folder. By saving your 360 head, you can apply it to other characters and test out the animation using the Face Puppet tool. We will also discuss the importance of replacing individual eye and mouth sprites to achieve different expressions and moods for your character.

10. Conclusion

In conclusion, creating a rotatable 360 head for your 2D characters using the 360 head tool in Cartoon Animator is a fun and creative way to enhance the expressiveness and realism of your animations. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can select the right template head, customize the structure in Photoshop, import custom sprites, tweak bone positioning, refine facial animation results, add and mask hair sprites, and save your 360 head for future use. Experiment with different templates and sprite placements to achieve a unique and captivating look for your characters. Enjoy animating with your newfound 360 head creation skills!

Highlights

• Learn how to create rotatable heads for 2D characters
• Select the right template head for your character's face
• Adjust the 360 head profile in Cartoon Animator for optimal animation
• Import custom sprites and replace template ones to personalize your character's head
• Refine bone positioning and sprite positions for realistic facial expressions
• Add and mask hair sprites to enhance the dynamic appearance of the character's head
• Save your 360 head and test the animation using the Face Puppet tool
• Customize expressions and moods by replacing individual eye and mouth sprites
• Experiment with different templates and sprite placements for unique character designs
• Have fun animating with your newfound 360 head creation skills!

FAQ

Q: Can I use the 360 head tool in other animation software?

A: The 360 head tool is specific to Cartoon Animator and may not be available in other animation software.

Q: How do I align the facial sprites with the bone positions?

A: To align the facial sprites with the bone positions, access the bone positioning editor and make adjustments as necessary.

Q: Can I use my own custom hair sprites instead of the template ones?

A: Yes, you can import your own custom hair sprites and replace the template ones for a personalized look.

Q: What if I want to change the size of the template head in Photoshop?

A: It is recommended to adjust the size of the template head in Cartoon Animator to avoid offsetting the facial features when updating the 360 head creator.

Q: How can I apply the 360 head to other characters?

A: Once you have saved the 360 head, you can apply it to other characters by selecting the head tab in the custom section of the content manager and choosing the saved head from the designated folder.

Q: Where can I find more resources and support for Cartoon Animator?

A: You can check out the learning center on the Cartoon Animator Website for more videos and tutorials. Additionally, the forums at forum.reillusion.com are a great place to find support and connect with other users.