So I wanna make a hat/weapon etc

Noggin

L5: Dapper Member
Nov 17, 2007
226
48
Where should I begin?

I know Valve use Softimage but should I use 3DS Max instead?

Also any beginner guides particulary to modeling for TF2 would be great.
 

Geal

L4: Comfortable Member
Aug 16, 2009
162
56
Modeling is a huge art in itself - you won't be able to learn it in an afternoon. As for tutorials, it varies with what program you're using. Each has its ups and downs softimage is easier to use than 3DS, but 3DS has more support - and thus more tutorials. Other popular programs are blender, zbrush, and Maya. Note that many of these cost money, and can get VERY pricey - in the several thousand dollar range. There's a great tutorial on the process of building a hat on the steam user forums, it's a sticky on the tf2 board so you can't miss it.
 

Noggin

L5: Dapper Member
Nov 17, 2007
226
48
Thanks guys, in waiting for replies I downloaded XSI as its free.

Will have to see if theres a student version of 3ds max or something.
 

Eyce

L6: Sharp Member
Jan 13, 2010
370
225
There is a student version, but it's just a discount price. I think in another thread someone was talking about there being a 18 month free trial or something?

Yeah, Students have access to a 12 month license of 3DS Max 2010.

http://students.autodesk.com/

Pretty good considering they release a new version every year, which means new licenses. :p
 

Noggin

L5: Dapper Member
Nov 17, 2007
226
48
Cool, thanks guys, Im gonna try XSI until I get a student approval for 3DS Max.

Does anyone have a simple model I can play around with for XSI?
 

Noggin

L5: Dapper Member
Nov 17, 2007
226
48
Trying my hand at XSI, proving very unfriendly so far, I take back what I said about hammer!