15 Basic Tips that will help you ace your Blender Game

If you are a beginner and looking for tips to ace your Blender game, we have just the right ones for you.

Fri Mar 24, 2023

The world of 3D modelling is brimming with new-age softwares that will help you enhance your skills. One such exemplary platform is Blender.

Well, those who are well-established in the fraternity might already be familiar with the wonders that Blender can do. However, if you haven’t come across this name yet, we’ve got you covered.

What is Blender though?

Blender is open-source software that helps you with 3D modelling, rendering, and visualisation. With its diverse range of dynamic tools, you can avail of options such as high-resolution modelling, robust texturing, animation, rendering, and a lot more. 


“Blender is a polygonal modelling tool that offers to create both straightforward and complex forms with ease. It has parametric tools in the form of modifiers that ease the process of architectural design without the need for scripting or node-based programming.” quotes Dimitar Pouchnikov, UH Studio Academy, UK
If you are a beginner and looking for tips to ace your Blender game, we have just the right ones for you.

15 Things about Blender you wish you knew earlier

1. Installation comes first

use blender for architecture

Source: domestica.org

To install Blender, starting with a current stable release is the most preferable option. However, Blender keeps developing and its updated versions are available frequently. 

You also have the option of installing multiple versions of Blender, and no, they would not interfere with each other. The best way is to choose the one that suits your purpose and install it right away.

2. Explore the Interface

Getting accustomed to a new interface can be one of the most tedious and difficult tasks. Once you get used to the user interface of Blender, implementing multiple projects would not be a big deal.

Dimitar Pouchnikov, UH Studio Academy on using Blender for its dynamic tools quotes, “Blender is over 20 years old, so it has had significant time to develop very robust mesh editing capabilities that include many of the typical operations found in Maya, 3ds Max and Cinema 4D - loop cuts, slide loops, bridge, poke, inset, etc.” 

Delve into the various tools and features, such as the Viewport, the hotkeys, and more. This will ease your working on the software, thereby, making the learning process more interesting and fun.


3. Learn the Vocabulary Basics

The world of Blender introduces you to a specific vocabulary that is a bit difficult to grasp. Therefore, if you get through this step, you can create marvels on Blender with ease.

This does not mean that you have to dive deeper into the myriad aspects of Blender. Rather, you can just skim through the tools and features and acquaint yourself with the many terms that might otherwise seem new and strange.


4. Formulate a Plan

Whatever you do, you need to formulate a plan to traverse through the software seamlessly. Begin with setting up a goal in your mind. For example, if you want to learn how to render, explore the tools that will help you learn it.

If you pinpoint a certain goal, it will be easier for you to get into the related features in a streamlined manner. This reduces the hassle of tackling multiple tools at once. 

Blender for Architects:Procedural Pavilion

5. Understand Viewport Navigation

use blender for architecture

Source: linuxhint.com

If you learn to navigate in Blender’s Viewport, half your learning is accomplished. Move the mouse by long pressing the middle button to skim through the model in any direction.
You will observe that the viewport around your model starts moving. This feature can be put to use to look into the multiple aspects of your model and move around it accordingly.

6. Modelling commands add ease

Getting your hands on modelling commands is the way to go when you are starting in Blender. You can begin by creating a basic model and using specific commands like extruding, edge loops, and beveling.
“There are various ways to invoke commands leaving to people’s personal preference to get to the toolsets - via the toolbar, via hotkeys, via context-sensitive right-click menus, or via the viewport header” quotes Dimitar Pouchnikov, UH Studio Academy, UK.

Experimentation is the key to learning. If you want to go back to a certain step, you can use Ctrl + i to invert your selection.

7. Take your time and be Patient

blender architecture software

Source: blender3darchitect.com

Blender as a software is a little difficult and tedious to learn. Even though it might bring along intriguing aspects for you to explore, the interface will take time to get used to.
Therefore, you need to take your time to get accustomed to its working. Be patient while getting your hands on the various commands and start your learning journey.

8. Figure out the Connections

Even though Blender has a lot of aspects that need attention, the best part is that everything is connected. Once you figure out these connections, the complexity can be overcome.
You also have the option of selecting multiple members that are connected. Press L while moving around an element, and you will be able to select all the elements connected to that particular member.

9. Repetition will be Useful

In a Blender model, you might need to use a particular element many times in a row. Creating it, again and again, can be a great hassle. This is when repetition comes into play.
You can create an element at the start and keep repeating it throughout with some modifications here and there. Using the shortcut Shift + R comes in handy when trying to repeat the last operation.

10. Delve into the Materials and Textures

blender architecture models

Source: artstation.com

Blender’s material palette has a lot for you to look out for. You can play around with endless materials and textures. Also, if you want to import materials of your choice, that’s an option too.
From bricks and concrete to fluids and fabrics, there are amazing materials for you to try out. The best part is you have the freedom of modifying textures as per your model.

11. Camera View for better Composition

blender 3d architecture

Source: © Dimitar Pouchnikov © UH Studio Design Acedemy

Blender entails a camera view that helps you put together a good composition. It facilitates you in glancing through a camera that takes you through the rendering of your model.
To switch to the camera view, you can click on zero (0) on the number pad, and you are sorted. Also, to use the camera as the normal viewport, lock the camera by delving into the View tab.

12. Hotkeys are your best friend

blender for architects

Source: hubwiz.com

We are all aware of the ease that shortcuts bring in while working on a software. These shortcuts on Blender are known as hotkeys.
The best option is to create a cheat sheet. Yes, this might consume a little bit of your time. But, when you are creating marvels on Blender, these shortcuts will help you take your work efficiency a notch higher.

13. Don’t Panic while learning

Learning any sort of new thing takes time and concentration. The quicker you come to terms with this fact, the easier it would be for you to learn Blender.
The conclusion is to not panic while learning. Even if you make mistakes, remember to get comfortable with the learning process and enhance your skills with time.

14. Experiment to discover new aspects

Experimentation, experimentation, experimentation! 

This cannot be emphasised enough. While learning Blender, you should keep using new tools and features to discover new aspects.
This will enhance your knowledge of Blender while helping you in getting used to the multiple features of the software.

15. Take a Beginner-Friendly Tutorial

Experimentation, experimentation, experimentation! This cannot be emphasised enough. While learning Blender, you should keep using new tools and features to discover new aspects.
This will enhance your knowledge of Blender while helping you in getting used to the multiple features of the software.

The Future is Now….

blender for architects

Source: blendermarket.com

Blender’s user-oriented aspects make it easy for beginners in the fraternity to learn and could actually be put to use for easier and better 3D working. However, this can only be achieved by getting familiarised with the software and learning its interface. You can either put aside a large chunk of time or take beginner-friendly tutorials to learn Blender quickly. 


Platforms like Futurly entail workshops conducted by experts in the field to help you learn the software in a shorter period. So, what are you waiting for? Install the latest version, sign up for a good tutorial, and brace yourself for learning right away!


FAQs: Blender

1. What is Blender?

Blender is an open-source software that helps you with purposes such as 3D modelling, rendering, and visualisation.

2. What are some uses of Blender?

With its diverse range of well-designed and powerful tools, you can avail of options such as high-resolution modelling, robust texturing, animation, rendering, and a lot more.

3. What are the cons of using Blender?

The following are the cons of using Blender:

  • Entails a steep learning curve
  • Might contain bugs since the software is open-source
  • Doesn’t work seamlessly on old devices

4. How does Viewport Navigation help in Blender?

The Viewport Navigation feature can be put to use to look into the multiple aspects of your model and move around it accordingly. Move the mouse by long pressing the middle button to skim through the model in any direction. You will observe that the viewport around your model starts moving.

5. What are hotkeys in Blender?

Keyboard shortcuts on Blender are known as hotkeys. These add ease and time efficiency while working on the software.

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Saili Sawantt_Architectural Journalist

Saili Sawantt
An Architect + Writer, Saili has worked as an Architectural writer & brand storyteller where she has collaborated with firms, studios, organizations, luxury brands, events & educational institutions to communicate in the real estate & travel industry. Her recent initiatives include curating an online workshop on communication and networking within the AEC industry. She is a commentator on the design industry’s upkeep through her social handles while also being an avid reader and traveler.