Tutorial: Sims 2 Object Creation with Wings 3D(free) *UPD 07/02/06*

[mod_bv]

*VERY IMPORTANT* THIS DOWNLOAD DOES NOT SUPPORT Q-XPRESS. IT WILL NOT WORK. USE OF Q-XPRESS ON THIS DOWNLOAD MAY CORRUPT YOUR GAME, HOWEVER UNLIKELY.

I love JWoods' object creation tutorial. But the downfall is that Milkshape is *NOT* free. With this in mind, I wrote this tutorial using all free programs.

You need the following programs for this tutorial:

SimPE - http://sims.ambertation.de
Wings 3D - http://www.wings3d.com/
UVMapper Classic - http://www.uvmapper.com/

We are making something simple, an end table. Create a folder called "End Table" on your computer. Remember this folder's location.

Part 1: Making the Mesh

1. Open Wings 3D. When you open it, two windows will open, Erlang and the main program. Leave both open. Your screen should look like this:
http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=103079&stc=1

2. Right-click in the center of your program. It will prompt you to choose a shape. Choose 'Cube'. Now your screen should look like this:
http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=103080&stc=1

3. Click on the Window tab on the toolbar and choose 'Geometry Graph'. This is what your screen should look like:
http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=103081&stc=1

4. Click on the pyramid to the left of the group name. If you don't know which that is, there is an arrow to it in the picture. This should be your screen now:
http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=103082&stc=1


5. Now, right click again. You may notice that the right-click menu changed. Choose Scale.../X. Scale it down 'till it look pretty much like this:
http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=103088&stc=1

6. Repeat what you did, but instead of choosing X, choose Z. Scale it 'till it looks like this:
http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=103089&stc=1

7. Choose the Export function and export it a Wavefront '.obj'. Travel to your End Table folder and save it with the name 'EndTableMesh.obj'

8. Open SimPE and go to Tools../Object Creation.../Object Workshop.

9. We are cloning from the Cornerstone End Table, so go ahead and clone it:
http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=103090&stc=1

10. In the Scenegrapher, DO NOT CHECK THE University Ready v2! Change the tableendclub to whatever and then click update. When done, press 'OK'.
http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=103091&stc=1

11. Save the PACKAGE file in the following format. Your internet Initials/Object Name/Date. So for me, that is 'BVTutTable073005.package'. Save the package. It's contents will show up.

12. First off, we need a new GUID. Go into Object Data and check off 'Update all MMATs'. Click on Get GUID and register your GUID. Now, click on both 'Update MMATs and Commit' and 'Commit'.
http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=103092&stc=1

13. We now have the new GUID. Now we must prepare the object for importing.

14. Open Wings 3D. Go to " File.../Import.../Wavefront '.OBJ' " and open the 'EndTableMesh.obj'.

14. Open the Geometry Graph the same way as in Step 3.

15. Right-click where it says 'cube1' and you will get three options: Duplicate, Delete, and Rename. Choose Rename.

16. Finally another screenshot. Rename cube1 to 'materials'. When it looks like the screenie, press 'OK'.
http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=103093&stc=1

17. Choose the Export function and export it a Wavefront '.obj'. Travel to your End Table folder and replace the file with the name 'EndTableMesh.obj

Part 2: Importing and Texturing

18. Don't worry, Part 2 is much easier than Part 1. It is my weekend project.

19. Before we actually import the end table-to-be, we will match it with a reference object. I actually made a useless step in Part 1, I haven't deleted it yet. Open SimPE to the package fille you created in Step 11.

20. Choose Geometric Data Container in the Reference Tree. Choose the first file in the right-side area.

21. Check off the box to the left of where it says 'materials' and then click 'Export'. Refer to the picture for details:

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112136&stc=1

22. Save the exported file as the name SimPE gives it, but in your End Table folder:

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112137&stc=1

23. Open Wings 3D. Import the EndTableMesh.obj file.

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112138&stc=1

24. Open the Geometry Graph and use the rename function(details in Steps 15 and 16) to change the name of materials to materials2.

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112139&stc=1

25. Now, use the Import function (File.../Import) and choose Import as Wavefront (.obj).

26. Import the file that you exported from SimPE.

27. Now, you may not know this, but now there is a small end table underneath your cube. I have moved my cube so you could get a better look. Do not move your cube!

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112140&stc=1

28. We want to resize our cube to match the end table's size. Select materials2 (Step 4) and then right-click on the screnn. Choose 'Scale.../Y' and scale the model so the model is the same height as the reference. Repeat for 'Scale.../X' and 'Scale.../Z' so it looks like the model shown:

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112141&stc=1

29. Delete the model named materials(Step 15, but choose Delete instead of Rename), and rename materials2 back to materials(Steps 15 and 16).

30. Now, choose 'File.../Export' and Export as 'Wavefront (.obj)'.

31. Export it as the OBJ you exported from SimPE.

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112142&stc=1

32. Quit Wings 3D. When the computer asks if you want to 'Save Changes', answer 'No'.

33. Open UVMapper Classic.

34. Choose 'File.../Load Model' and load the model that you just saved from Wings 3D.

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112143&stc=1

35. A screen like the one below should appear:

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112144&stc=1

36. Go to 'Edit.../New UV Map.../Box' to create a UV Map.

37. Make the Map Size '512'. Now, click OK.

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112145&stc=1

38. This should be your screen now:

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112146&stc=1

39. Go to 'File.../Save Model'. Do not change any of the checkboxes, just press OK. Save it as the file you loaded. When it asks you if you are sure you want to replace it, press 'Yes'.

40. Now choose 'File.../Save Texture Map', again, do not change anything, just press OK. Save it as the name UVMapper gives you but in the End Table Folder.

41. Here's a trick: I never told you to close SimPE. So go back to SimPE. If you closed it, reopen it and go to thew Geometric Data Container Again, this time choose 'Import'.

42. Import the model you saved in UVMapper Classic.

43. In the Mesh Group Importer, set Action to replace and in the submenu underneath choose materials. Details in the picture below.

http://thumbs.modthesims2.com/getimage.php?file=112135&stc=1

44. Save the PACKAGE file. It seems there is no need for texturing in this tutorial. If in your case there is, you texture the UV Map and in the Texture File section import that BMP. We are done Part 2!

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Part 3: You Win!!

45. Put the PACKAGE file into the Downloads folder. You win! :rofl: :puppy:

46. Use the item.

47. Hit the thank you button down there.

48. Ask Delphy why llamas can't talk.

49. Tell 5 friends about llamas.

50. You WIN!!!!

I started this tutorial on July 28, 2005. On August 17, 2005, it was completed. I thought that the end table I used needed texturing, but I didn't know that it didn't. So I finished in two parts. But there is a third part because from the start it was supposed to be a three-part tutorial. This message right here is basically a closure of this final tutorial of mine. Today is December 31, 2005, and I've finally made Part 3 today. Kudos! And also,if you were wondering why I wasn't uploading, it was because I have my own site now. It is located at http://d2x.examp.com/DSims/ (dead link)

The Italian translation was made by Zukkao. Please check out his site, http://www.simsfan.it.




----------
Tutorials:Sims_2_Object_Creation_with_Wings3D

[cdboogie]

Awesome! Thank-you so much mod_bv! I was hoping for something like this!

[*@nn@*]

Are Wings free? How do I downloded it?

*@nn@*-The swedish girl

[mod_bv]

Wings 3D is absolutely free. If you look at the top of the tutorial, I wrote this:

You need the following programs for this tutorial:

SimPE - http://sims.ambertation.de
Wings 3D - http://www.wings3d.com/
UVMapper Classic - http://www.uvmapper.com/

The exact link to the download: (EDIT: Link broken, is deleted)

[simsample]

Good tutorial, Mod_bv. Thanks for this! Looking forward to the next parts.

[mod_bv]

Could this be moved to the Tuts forum?

[dragonfly2004]

An excellent tutorial, mod_bv. Very clear and concise.
With the version of SimPE I have (0.40.1992.25042), the Object workshop is located in the Plugins drop down menu.
I can hardly wait for Part 2 of this series. Many thanks!

[Grapholina]

So far so good. Quite clear and easy to follow.

[mod_bv]

An excellent tutorial, mod_bv. Very clear and concise.
With the version of SimPE I have (0.40.1992.25042), the Object workshop is located in the Plugins drop down menu.
I can hardly wait for Part 2 of this series. Many thanks!
This tutorial was made with the new SimPE GUI. You have SimPE Classic (any version below 0.42). I suggest you upgrade.

Also, could this be moved?

[daysies]

It's moved! :)

[mod_bv]

Thank you.

[mod_bv]

The truth is I am a newbie @ WIngs 3D, I got it only two weeks ago! So I am still learning about it.

[DMWTM30]

you are my hero, i have waited to long for something like this.
I just can't wait for your next part. You're the men!!! :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

[_OMERTA_]

Wings 3D is WAY bette than MilkShape, i've made the best objects on it(only 2 so far, a helicopter and a revolver, which I will put up for download once I learn how to convert *simpe files to *package files)

does anyone here know how to convert them?

[mod_bv]

Well, that is Part 2 and 3 of this tutorial. Follow the tutorial by JWOods ,just skipping all milkshape parts. It's just I wasn't finished ane the tutorial was in demand so I posted it.

[mod_bv]

UPDATE: Very informative information from Numenor:

1) The .obj files created with Wings3D are NOT compatible with the MeshTool, not with the "Import" function of SimPE. The easiest way to fix these .obj files is to load them into UVmapper and immediately save them.

2) Wings3D HAS UVmapping functionalities: just select all the faces (faces, not vertices, lines or models), right-click on the object and choose Tesselate/Triangulate; then right-click again on the object and choose the last option: UV mapping.
A new window will appear: righ-click anywhere on it and select "Segment by" / "Feature Detection". Lastly, right-click one more time on the the UVmapping window and choose "Continue"/"Projection". Now you can export as .obj, and the file will contain the UV coordinates.
Mind that this UVmapping method leads to inaccurate results: UVmapper classic is way better, so I suggest to use it anyway. The only important thing to remember is to TRIANGULATE the object in Wings before exporting.

[nukesitter]

can you use this for hair meshing??

[mod_bv]

It is made specifically for object meshing. But you can use it for hair meshes, but you need to modify it to your needs.

[inuyashalover1992]

hey this is a great thing

[KiaraRawks]

this is very awesome. now wings 3d wont just be sitting there on my comp!

One question, once you learn more about this, could you possibly make a tutorial for new clothing meshes with Wings cause I am afraid that if i follow the one for milkshape, i may messup or get confused haha.

[mod_bv]

Yup, Kiara, right on it!

And if you are mad that Part 2 isn't out yet, it is because I only work on tutorials on weekends. I am working on something else.

[mod_bv]

Production on Part 2 has officially begun!

[_OMERTA_]

is the tutorial finsihed yet?

[mod_bv]

No it isn't OMERTA, please be patient.

[simbot1234]

Hey in this tutorial will we learn texturing?

[mod_bv]

Yup Simbot. Hence the name of Part 2 is Part 2: Importing and Texturing

[shleyaay]

i clicked on ur link but i cant download it, i think it has moved or something, is ther another way 2 get wings 3d ( by da way im new)

[mod_bv]

Try this one, it works for me right now: http://www.wings3d.com/

[simbot1234]

How much of part 2 have you finished?

[mod_bv]

Steps 18 to 30 of Part 2 have been finished. They cover matching your mesh with an export, deleting the export, and importing the GMDC.

[Max3D]

if u wish u can use 3DStudio ..
u'll find tons of tutorial about modelling and texturing in 3DSmax.

When your object is done and the texture is correct, export your mesh as 3DS file.
you could import it in wings3D or milkshape is the same..
i suggest to import the original mesh (exported from simPe)
and then the .3ds file, so you'll have the 2 mesh.. scale the new one and
place exactly where the original is.. then delete the old one and export your job as .obj (Wavefront / maya) file.

at least u can import the obj file in the .package with simpe.. as numenor as well explaned...

u can also replace a single mesh, on the attached immage u can see
my .obj file have the all mesh that compose the Sims2Object but in this case i import just a single mesh to replace the orginal one called "surfaces".
All the other mesh are set as "Action:Nothing" and they remain as they are.
that's a realy cool/usefull option :D

that's all and that's how i build my stuff :)

[mistwind]

Wow, thanks for the tutorial! I had just begun to figure out Milkshape when my trial expired.... While I'm waiting for part 2, I'll get used to Wings 3D :D So, are we supposed to do the UVMapping on our own, or is it part of part 2? I could figure it out using UVMapper Classic on my own, but will follow a tutorial if it is given. :D

[mod_bv]

Well, that will be part of PArt 2.

[angelindesgise]

Can't wait for Part 2.....


I've been waiting for a good tutorial on 3Dwings!!

What a pleasure to be here right now.....I love your tutorial on Part 1, it's so detailed and understandable.

Thank you!! :P

[MagicEmeralda]

If you ever have the time, can you make a hair tutorial? I'm lost on hair meshing for Wings 3D. But of course, only if you have time. ^^; I'm going to try out this tutorial. Hopefully object meshing is easier than clothes and hair meshing.

Oh, btw, the tutorial is really good- I can understand it even though I suck at understanding things. ^^

[mod_bv]

Part 2 is finished and uploaded!

[frenchy124]

I want to take and object that is in the game and customize it how do I export the object from sims 2 so that it can be imported into 3dmax or wings3d. Is there and unpacker that i need to use, I don't seem to know where to look for the objects in the game to customize. Also I havn't seen any threeds that explain how to make the object interactable in the game like computer, ect. Can someone please help.

[That one girl]

I know this may sound very noobish but I don't know where to download Wings 3D. I'm at the site, but I can't find the link to download the actual Wings 3D. I thought I found it at the top left box labeled 'news' under 'Latest Stable Rel: 0.98.29b' but once I got it on my computer, I can't open the file.

Do I need anything to run wings? If so, can you please link it to me?

Please help me out... I really want to mesh... :weep:


EDIT: YAY! I found the download page, which happened to be called 'download page'. :dunce: So nevermind!

[mod_bv]

I want to take and object that is in the game and customize it how do I export the object from sims 2 so that it can be imported into 3dmax or wings3d. Is there and unpacker that i need to use, I don't seem to know where to look for the objects in the game to customize. Also I havn't seen any threeds that explain how to make the object interactable in the game like computer, ect. Can someone please help.
Back it up!

'Also I havn't seen any threeds that explain how to make the object interactable in the game like computer, ect.' - Start with something easier. This is way out of your region.

You need SimPE to customize an object. Follow my tutorial, but change it, like clone the object you want to customize instead of the end table.

[frenchy124]

I still need to know how to find the objects in the game in order to customize them.

[mod_bv]

Step 8. Object Workshop plugin in SimPE.

[Euterpe]

Firstly, thank you very much for these tutorials! They are greatly appreciated.

I just have a stupid question...you say part 2 is up...but I can't find it? Is it on a seperate page or something?

Thanks!

[mod_bv]

Part 2 is there.

[Euterpe]

Whoops! I saw it now thanks!

[mod_bv]

If you use this tutorial, please support development of BV items and click the tiny thank you button. It is the MTS2 way of donating. LOL.

[simsample]

Thanks Mod! (clicks thankyou button)

[mod_bv]

You can now get a PDF file!!!

[mod_bv]

UPDATE: Everyone has been asking, and the time has come. I will next be working on a new mesh clothing tutorial for Wings 3D, which will be followed by a Wings 3D hair tutorial.

[angelindesgise]

I followed the whole tutorial all the way up to 44 in part II.But I don't have a texture file for some reason. I save and SimPE .44 ask if I want to commit? Should I commit or say no?

[mod_bv]

Yes you should commit. Commit means save.

It seems there is no need for texturing in this tutorial. If in your case there is, you texture the UV Map and in the Texture File section import that BMP. We are done Part 2!

By 'in your case', I mean if you are making an object other than this object, like if I'm making a bed, I would modify this tutorial for a bed.

[angelindesgise]

I'm stepping back a ways. Can you tell me why when I imported the materials to replace SimPE gave me a warning saying
This is just a Warning. It is supposed to keep you informed about a Problem. Most of the Time this is not a Bug!

Line 193: No valid Face List. (f 9/25/9 24/26/24 23/27/23 22/28/22 21/29/21 20/30/20 19/31/19 18/32/18 17/33/17 16/34/16 15/35/15 14/36/14 13/37/13 12/38/12 11/39/11 10/40/10)
Line 210: No valid Face List. (f 26/81/26 27/82/27 28/83/28 29/84/29 30/85/30 31/86/31 32/87/32 33/88/33 34/89/34 35/90/35 36/91/36 37/92/37 38/93/38 39/94/39 40/95/40 25/96/25)?

And when I open SimPE go to object workshop and upload the packaged file for recoloring it gives me this...

Object reference not set to an instance of an object. :confused:

[angelindesgise]

I decided to start over since I couldn't find a texture file on the first object I did so I cloned the first "endtoend" table with the glass it it.I don't know if that's why my object looks funny but part of the top is not showing up. I resized it too with the original table in wings.


Also I imported the textured map I had made in psp9, I saved it as a png because bmps don't show up in the file. But the texture was not the right size and SimPE resized it for me....Actually the texture map was for the original endtoend table and my 512 size didn't fit at all.When I was in object mesh and replacing I used the wood and the glass only and not the shadows.Was that right??? or should I have checked them all?

Please tell me what I did wrong. And how can I fix this?
here's a pic of my first object..it's just a base,later I'll learn how to detail.

I made two shapes then combined in wings.sized it to the original but some of it doesn't show up.http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v193/Angelindesgise/SIMS2/SIMS2-OBJECTS/theredo-one-that-I-textured.jpg

[mod_bv]

I can bet that when SimPE resized it the texture map got corrupted. Re- UVMap it, but this time make the UVMap the size of the original texture.

About how the mesh isn't complete, try placing the end table somewhere other than the corner of a room.

[angelindesgise]

thanks for the info....I did redo the texture size and I realized that first pic I had up was the non textured object cloned by the table you have in your tutorial.

I put the table in the middle and still it has a gaping hole in the top.When I resized it to the original the oval top part was even with the top of the original table.I don't have a clue why the vase wants to sink in and parts of top are missing.No matter where I angle it it's still chopped.

[MagicEmeralda]

Wow! ^^ I'm going to try this right now.

You're going to work on a clothing tutorial? :3 That's awesome.

[angelindesgise]

Yes I can't wait for that either and the hair tutorial!!


Hey mod_bv can I tweak my already made object by going back into wings and maybe resizing it or something???? Then remap it afterwards??? :p

[mod_bv]

The vase sinking through is because the height of your object doesn't match the height of the reference object.

As for the hole in your object, post about that here: http://www.modthesims2.com/showthread.php?t=82084

And the clothng tutorial isn't recoloring clothing, but making a whole new clothing shape.

[angelindesgise]

Hey I never said you were tuting a recolor?? :giggler: I just said I can't wait either for your clothing and hair tutorials :angel:

about the table being not the right size....do I have to start over? or can I pull the object back into wings and resize?

[mod_bv]

You can pull the object back into Wings.

[angelindesgise]

sorry for sounding so ignorant, but does that mean

I start from #33 (map it) and do everything from there to the end of the tutorial? I don't want make any mistakes if ya' know what I mean.

I'm good at that :fallen:

[MagicEmeralda]

I have a question. On step #44, you're basically saying there is no reason to retexture it if we used the same object as you?

[mod_bv]

I didn't mean it like that, I meant that I accidentially cloned an object that shares a texture with another object.

[tubbs005]

when is part 3 coming?

[LuciousNess]

First of all, thank you for this awesome tutorial! I appreciate it most certainly with so much to know about object creation, it's wonderful to have a well written step by step on how to make something brand new.

However, during this process when I follow the tutorial and get to step 20, we have to do the geometric container part, when i click on the "Geometric Data Container" tab on the left, immediately while it tries to load, an error pops up in the SimsPE that says:

Message:
File or assembly name Microsoft.DirectX.Direct3D, or one of its dependencies, was not found.

SimPE Version:
Classic (0.44.2046.26185).

Exception Stack:
System.IO.FileNotFoundException: File or assembly name Microsoft.DirectX.Direct3D, or one of its dependencies, was not found.
File name: "Microsoft.DirectX.Direct3D"
at Ambertation.Windows.Forms.DirectXPanel..ctor()
at SimPe.Plugin.fGeometryDataContainer.InitializeComponent()
at SimPe.Plugin.fGeometryDataContainer..ctor()
at SimPe.Plugin.GeometryDataContainer.get_TabPage()
at SimPe.Plugin.RcolForm.BuildChildTabControl(AbstractRcolBlock rb)
at SimPe.Plugin.RcolForm.SelectRcolItem(Object sender, EventArgs e)

=== Pre-bind state information ===
LOG: DisplayName = Microsoft.DirectX.Direct3D, Version=1.0.2902.0, Culture=neutral, PublicKeyToken=31bf3856ad364e35
(Fully-specified)
LOG: Appbase = C:\Program Files\SimPE\
LOG: Initial PrivatePath = NULL
Calling assembly : 3dview, Version=1.0.2046.26187, Culture=neutral, PublicKeyToken=null.
===

LOG: Publisher policy file is not found.
LOG: Host configuration file not found.
LOG: Using machine configuration file from C:\WINDOWS\Microsoft.NET\Framework\v1.1.4322\config\machine.config.
LOG: Post-policy reference: Microsoft.DirectX.Direct3D, Version=1.0.2902.0, Culture=neutral, PublicKeyToken=31bf3856ad364e35
LOG: Attempting download of new URL file:///C:/Program Files/SimPE/Microsoft.DirectX.Direct3D.DLL.
LOG: Attempting download of new URL file:///C:/Program Files/SimPE/Microsoft.DirectX.Direct3D/Microsoft.DirectX.Direct3D.DLL.
LOG: Attempting download of new URL file:///C:/Program Files/SimPE/Microsoft.DirectX.Direct3D.EXE.
LOG: Attempting download of new URL file:///C:/Program Files/SimPE/Microsoft.DirectX.Direct3D/Microsoft.DirectX.Direct3D.EXE.

Source:
3dview

Execution Stack:
at Ambertation.Windows.Forms.DirectXPanel..ctor()
at SimPe.Plugin.fGeometryDataContainer.InitializeComponent()
at SimPe.Plugin.fGeometryDataContainer..ctor()
at SimPe.Plugin.GeometryDataContainer.get_TabPage()
at SimPe.Plugin.RcolForm.BuildChildTabControl(AbstractRcolBlock rb)
at SimPe.Plugin.RcolForm.SelectRcolItem(Object sender, EventArgs e

Obviously it's some sort of 3D rendering/Direct X problem, but maybe I'm missing some sort of plug ins? I'm very new to all of this so it might be some basic plug in that i haven't yet downloaded somewhere, but I did my checklist for making objects and got everything needed for this tutorial.

Do you have any idea what this could mean or why I'm getting the error?
Thanks in advance =)
LD

[mod_bv]

LuciousNess, from the SimPE FAQ, this means that you need the DX Managed Extensions.

http://sims.ambertation.de/files/mdxredist.msi - Download that file, and double-click the file to start the Installer.

[tubbs005]

Y isnt there a part 3?

[angelindesgise]

Is it nessesary to tesselate and triangulate in wings 3d before you to the UV mapper?

[LuciousNess]

Thanks so much hon! I knew I was missing something important. I really appreciate your help. =)

LD

[mod_bv]

Angelindesgise, I don't recall that being required.

[angelindesgise]

Thank you Mod_v....

I went ahead and made another endtable. I cloned the endtable you have in your tutorial.

And I used SimPE.46 this time and hello, the vase fits perfect and everything shows up!
here's my endtable with no map (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v193/Angelindesgise/SIMS2/SIMS2-OBJECTS/MyEndtable-nomap.jpg)
The only issue now is that the texture file did not show in SimPE.

And in the other endtables I made the texture file was always the original one and not my map I saved.I saved the model in UVmap to the one I exported from SimPE and replaced it.Then saved the map as the file it produced. I'm so aggrivated that I can't get a bump map.

I want to send you the package in that one posting where you see what's wrong with the file but I don't know how to go about sending it to you. Can you tell me how?

[juan]

aff i couldnt make it in step 20 when i click the first file SIMPE says that i do not have Direct3D, or something like that, about direct3d and the strange is that i have a 3D video card o.O

EDIT 1

i found the problem (i hope) i saw it in official SimPE forum and now i am downloanding the Directx extensions... to thos that have this problem and didnt know how to fix( i yet do not tried to see if it fix all problems)


http://ambertation.de/simpeforum/viewtopic.php?t=1269

[mod_bv]

Y isnt there a part 3?
There will be a Part 3 soon. I am not here to give you a PArt 3 when you ask. I have a life, I have a job, I have a house, I have sick aunts etc. No need to ask twice. I am building this tutorial around my life. I am not your servant.

[juan]

i have just one question... u said in the end of the PDF file that if i want to texture i just texturethe uv map, "and in the texture file section import that bmp", but if u are talking about the "Textures Images" category of ur package file of the object in SimPE, i tried but i dont get it, cant i use wings3d uvmap? .. if i need to use uvmapper classic, how do i "refresh" the bmp image?

[angelindesgise]

good question!! I've been waiting on that answer too! Problem is I don't even get a texture file to come up in SimPE after I import my object.And I uv mapped in UVMAPPER classic.

hope you get your answer

[bananarama]

aaaagh!
First off the tutorial has been great, very clear and precise. However I tryed to make a new object (well my mate did, just don't ask what- this is the same guy who made a sim called Phreaky McGeekerson and liked it) but I get this error message when I try to register new user data I get this weird error message... any help? This is what it said:

<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//IETF//DTD HTML 2.0//EN"> <HTML> <HEAD>

Any help?

[mod_bv]

bananarama: That is HTML. Your settings may have been corrupted. Ask at the SimPE forums.

[Pinto-00]

I always get stuck on step
12 First off, we need a new GUID. Go into Object Data and check off 'Update all MMATs'. Click on Get GUID and register your GUID. Now, click on both 'Update MMATs and Commit' and 'Commit'.

[juan]

i have a problem, i made a simple table, but the table i used to clone disappear from my game, and my object, that replaced it, has the same colors, etc... is the new guid used to game dont replace the object?

i need to get a new id every time i create some new object?

[mod_bv]

Pinto-00, exactly what don't you get. I need specifics.

Juan, every Object Data (OBJD) item in that category, needs a GUID. Most have only one, but there are exceptions. For instance, the helicopter has 35 OBJDs. So you need 35 GUIDs for that object, one for every OBJD.

[juan]

thanks , i understood, but now i am having the same error of bananarama lol, but i tried only one time i will try again later

[Pinto-00]

I found the error Thanks anyway mod_bv

[mod_bv]

BEcause of personal issues, Part 3 is no longer one of my top priority projects.

[angelindesgise]

We understand :D

Hope your Aunts are ok.

[juan]

no problem, but please how can i make to texture correctly the object? probally the UV MAP of Wings3D dont work... i tried .. need to use UvMapper classic but dunno how to refresh the image o.O

[mod_bv]

The oject cant be textured correctly because the Cornerstone End Table shares textures with a coffee table

[nadster]

pardon me for being... blind? or just plain stupid :)
I've followed the tutorial and now I don't know where to find the rest!!
it says at the end of the tutorial it should be up in a week.... :( where?

according to the date it's been more than a month and I'm thinking theres some info about it somewhere that I missed.

does anyone know where I can find part 3? please?

edit: ok, I scrolled up a little and read you're having some problems. so, never mind about my question. I'm sure you'll return when you can.

in the meantime, take care!

[loser4020]

hey i have used this so many times and it really works i got one fault thoe every thing i creat is white, when will i be able to learn how to get this in colors and stuff lol, thanks

[mod_bv]

Colors, yeah, the colors, those are are called textures. You can't get colors on the Cornerstone Senietal End Table, but if you make something else, like a chair or something, or if you clone a different end table, you texture the UV Map you made and in the Texture File section import that BMP.

[juan]

hi mod_bv.. i think thats what i need... i'll try to some object that i dont like in case of something get wrong lol

[Demitheus]

Have you used Wings to edit the character meshes in Sims 2. I can't import and obj. edit it and export it. File doesn't work.

[mod_bv]

Demotheus, read this:


1) The .obj files created with Wings3D are NOT compatible with the MeshTool, not with the "Import" function of SimPE. The easiest way to fix these .obj files is to load them into UVmapper and immediately save them.

2) Wings3D HAS UVmapping functionalities: just select all the faces (faces, not vertices, lines or models), right-click on the object and choose Tesselate/Triangulate; then right-click again on the object and choose the last option: UV mapping.
A new window will appear: righ-click anywhere on it and select "Segment by" / "Feature Detection". Lastly, right-click one more time on the the UVmapping window and choose "Continue"/"Projection". Now you can export as .obj, and the file will contain the UV coordinates.
Mind that this UVmapping method leads to inaccurate results: UVmapper classic is way better, so I suggest to use it anyway. The only important thing to remember is to TRIANGULATE the object in Wings before exporting.

[Demitheus]

I wasn't having luck with Wings and UV Mapper so I will try again. I just mean to ask if you have at least tried editing the character meshes using Wings3D and successfully imported them back in. If yes then I'll continue to figure it out till it works. Untill you get back to me on that Im going to just try and try + research. I was just looking to make sure that it wasn't a deadend beforehand.

[mod_bv]

Character meshes? Do you mean new clothing meshes or meshes that affect all Sims? If new clothing, people have confirmed that the trick by Numenor works. Im not sure on the meshes that affect all SIms ,like hacks that make a more anatomically correct body, those I am not surew on.

[viraLx3]

Hey guys,

I am new in object creation, and when I try to make my own objects I just can't seem to figure out how to do the texturing. II am going to make my object one single texture that would be no problem, but that is not the case. I don't understand which maps to use and how I should space out the maps. Can someone please help?

btw i am using uvmapper

[mod_bv]

It doesn't matter how you space. It only helps you.

[morten8035]

i don't find wings3d. :(

[Dyamondgyrl77]

I am having the biggest problem with this tutorial. When I import my new mesh into SimPE all i get a box that is twice the size of what the end table should be. What did I do wrong.

Also the tutorial needs to be reformatted. If I had PDF conversion functionality I would do it for you. It would be very helpful if the directions could go on the same page as the picture.

To MOD_BV:
I got stuck on Step# 35. Here is some information that you might want to add for someone who doesn't have a clue to new object creation.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
You will get a message that reads

"This object has no UV Texture coordinates
Use Edit>New UV Map
to create some"

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

I didn't know why I was getting this message. I mean I read the entire tutorial before I started but it didn't mention that message would appear. Maybe I did something wrong but I got that message and until I did the Edit>New UV Map and clicked OK on the dialog box, I was not getting picture after step# 35.

Anyway, my initial problem was why is my end table twice as high as it should be. I knew that wasn't the size of the end table that we imported but I followed the text as well as the picture. The picture was not was not the size of the end table but you said:

28. We want to resize our cube to match the end table's size. Select
materials2 (Step 4) and then right-click on the screnn. Choose 'Scale.../Y'
and scale the model so the model is the same height as the reference. Repeat
for 'Scale.../X' and 'Scale.../Z' so it looks like the model shown:

... and I did just that.

Someone please help me. I like using other people's designs but I cannot upload it anywhere (without giving proper credit of course). I would like to create a 2 bedroom home with my own objects.

[SimmySimSim]

wheres part 3?

[angelicbunny]

I doon't see any of the pictures!!!

[Raffi]

you rock but,, where do I download Wing3d ther is no download link in the website

[SimmySimSim]

I doon't see any of the pictures!!! Then download it.

[Gyps101]

im sorry, how do you open up the programs when you download using rar.
i double click and it comes up as a text file, same as all the other files!

[mod_bv]

I'm so sorry, I forgot about this thread. But I just remembered and came to check on it.

The exact download link is: http://internap.dl.sourceforge.net/sourceforge/wings/wings-0.98.32a.exe The download is partially hidden on the page.

THe PDF is working for me. I use Acrobat 7.0 Professional. I just got it, and the convert this PDF I used open-source software. THe PDF is working on versions 6.0 and up of Adobe Reader.

Also, I don't know who, but soem moderator or admin probably got rid of the pictures loading on the page to save bandwidth, and I respect that decision. I recommend the PDF ddownload.

[vero4ever]

Thanks for the help :jest: :baloons:

[Christine11778]

:yippee: This is an awesome tutorial! I love simple, easy to follow basic tutorials that just about anyone can do. Thank you for taking the time to make this tutorial.

Christine

[mod_bv]

My pleasure. I have about 30 New Year's resolutions, and one of them is to keep this tutorial up to date. I will also start giving meshing and skinning private lessons for free. So if you want something more in-depth and personalized, PM me. Include your time zone and location (just a state or country) so I can plan accordingly. My time zone is GMT-5, location Massachusetts, USA.

[kevinsimsmaniac]

I think... I've got it
Thanks mov_bv :jig: :jig: :jig: :banana:

[mod_bv]

No problem. I'm tryuing to decide what tutorial I'll make next. Suggestions?

[carol6552]

Is it only me...I can't see any pictures in this tutorial. Only red x's. :(

[thebiggreentree]

*sob* im so terrible at computers

[niakori]

No problem. I'm tryuing to decide what tutorial I'll make next. Suggestions?

If you can find time I would love a clothing mesh tutorial for wings3d, or anyway I can get my wings obj. mesh to work in simpe or meshtool.

I actually prefer wings3d over milkshape when it come to meshing, but its incompatibilty with meshtool and simpe is killing me :skull:

[dynamitey10]

Thank you so much! Because of you I`m making objects now! So far i`ve made a tube for a pool, firewood, blocks for toddlers and the box in the tutorial! Thank you so much! :wave:

[mod_bv]

Ok dynamitey10, no problem.

We just got an update. Zukkao made an Italian translation of the tutorial, I'll add it when I recieve it!

[peepers42]

at least you got a gmdc, I cant get it to show up on my resource tree at all!!!!I am using simP.54 and I know that there are gonna be differences, but, come on!! where is it , my gmdc? I am totally stuck on #20,,,,,HELP!!!!!
Leslie :wave: :gonemad:

[mod_bv]

Peepers, what object aree you cloning? I haven't ever had this problem, so I'm really not sure what's wrong.

[Mirjam]

i tried to do my object " a chain sclupture"... i wanted to do something really simple... this is how the chain sclupture looks like in the wings 3D... but when i went to the game only "2 rings" showe .. not even the base.... does anyone know whats wrong? help please! :puppy:

[mod_bv]

From what I can see from the Wings 3D screen, you need to combine those circles into one big object. You do this by selecting all the objects in the mesh. Then you choose the one you want all of them to be named. Now you right-click, and there shall be an option that says 'Combine'. Click it. You are done!

P.S. After you do the combine, I recommend doing the whole object making process over again, skipping the meshing portions, as to keep from mistakes.

[Mirjam]

i did combine it... but when I exported it (....) then i enter the mesh again to see whats wrong it's "uncombined"
And in the simPE when i click the "import" button and the window pops out (you know...when you have to put "replace"...) it's not combined - and i did combine it in wings3D...
oh i think i'm not making any sence to you...
sorry for boring you with my questions! :P

[mod_bv]

I really don't know what's wrong in that case. I've never had a combining problem. Are you using the Mesh Tool. Avoid it at all costs. It can't read Wings 3D meshes. I will be sure to look this problem up, though. I'll reply with any possible solutions.

[Mirjam]

THNAX!!!!!!!! :moose:
thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!

[mod_bv]

Oh, you were using the Mesh Tool?

[Mirjam]

i'm sorry ... i'm sooooo ignorant!!!! a mesh tool? is that in simPE or....?
*embaresed*

[mod_bv]

The Mesh Tool is a tool which changes meshes to work in the Sims 2. Miche made it. It used to be required to be used to make a mesh work in TS2. Lately, a better copy of the Mesh Tool was made. This copy is now a part of SimPE. You don't have to use the Mesh Tool anymore, thanks to Quaxi's cunning ability. Some people still use the Mesh Tool (You need to use the Mesh Tool to edit clothing and body meshes). The Mesh Tool's older versions were not able to work ith Wings 3D.

[IgnorantBliss]

The Mesh Tool is still one of the options you can use to retain animations for an object. But non-animated objects, or objects that have the animated parts in separate GMDCs, don't generally need it.

[Mirjam]

no,then i don't use it. :)
thank you both for the explanation

[Mirjam]

that actualy didn't solve my problem.... oh well... i'm gonna try it with milkshape.... :P

[webmessia]

Wings 3D is WAY bette than MilkShape, i've made the best objects on it(only 2 so far, a helicopter and a revolver, which I will put up for download once I learn how to convert *simpe files to *package files)

does anyone here know how to convert them?
From what I know you cant. .simpe files are resources. I might be wrong, but its better to put your meshes in GMDC of your objects (the way it is done in the tutorial.) I know you want to here that i can, but looking at this post its made me think it can be done. It will say somewhere on the internet but dont get your hopes high. :sorry:

[elinmalman]

i cant download simPE...help???

[IgnorantBliss]

i cant download simPE...help???

What is your problem when you try to download it? The site seems to be working fine for me. Go here (http://sims.ambertation.de/) and then click on the Downloads link.

[Khallayne]

To all those who couldn't get the Geometric Data Container to show up:

When cloning the object be sure the box "reference original mesh" is unchecked... this will cause the program to load the original mesh into the package for you, since an object can't show without a mesh... and that's when the GDC shows up! Of course, if you don't have the proper extensions installed you will get an error when you click on it, but you can read the FAQ on the SimPE site to find out how to fix that :)

I read this entire thread three times and didn't find anyone who had said how to fix this, so I hope I helped!

[mod_bv]

Thanks Khallayne for the info! Could I put it on the main thread with credit to you???

[Za9965]

When I click your site http://d2x.examp.com/DSims/, All I have is a 404 not found
Please Help Me WWAAAHHH!!!!!!

[mod_bv]

Our server was taken by the RIAA because I rented part out to a friend who put copyrighted material on his portion without my knowledge :(. So the site isn't there anymore.

[moonlight_muse]

Thanks for part 1, I'm looking forward to trying the tutorial out :)
I also didn't get part two,
will you be uploading it here?

thanks

[Za9965]

:) Where is it

[Zephyro8500]

I'm not able to download Wings 3D from the site put on this page and I don't know why. Can you give me an other link where I can download it free? Thank you!

[mod_bv]

Moonlight, Parts 2 and 3 were all uploaded. The PDF only includes parts 1 and 2, but Part 3 is of no use and is just unnecessary info.

Zeph, an exact guide to the Wings 3D download link:

1. Go to http://www.wings3d.com/
2. On the left, there is a small window that says 'Latest Stable Rel: 0.98.32a' or something similar. If you have Windows, click the link 'win' underneath that line. If you have Mac OS X, press 'mac'.
3. Click any of the download links.
4. Follow the instructions at the top.
5. WOO-HOO! You win! :P

[moonlight_muse]

Ok, thanks for the reply :)

[Beliria]

Not sure if I'm having a ditzy day but I followed everything right up to step 27, and the endtable that I opened into Wings 3d next to the mesh shape, is on its side with the legs going into the shape, (basically not upright like yours).

Any ideas as to what I have done wrong?

[sesene93]

thnx!:)

[Panic Wolf]

No problem. I'm tryuing to decide what tutorial I'll make next. Suggestions?

If you haven't already started on a different one, I would love to see a hair meshing tutorial with Wings3D. :)

[sinterneters]

When I try to save the model in uv mapper it says that the save function has been disabled and same with the import button. What do I do? IT says to register but do I have to pay to register. If not where do I register?

Please respond quickly.

Thanks!!

[Ginn123]

Im so confused! Not with the working, but i just can't install all the programs! You know like wing3d! HELP!! but THANKS for this side! im so glad!

-Malster

[Ginn123]

okay... thanks! I need help with a nother thing. ive installed it now. But in step 20-21... there are written like: "file or assembly name Microsoft.DirectX or one of its dependencies, was not found"... what is that?!´what can i do? and i dont think that it in step 12 did commit, so i tried again some times but it doesnt work!?! pleeaase help! great guide! thanks alot!

[IgnorantBliss]

okay... thanks! I need help with a nother thing. ive installed it now. But in step 20-21... there are written like: "file or assembly name Microsoft.DirectX or one of its dependencies, was not found"... what is that?!´what can i do? and i dont think that it in step 12 did commit, so i tried again some times but it doesnt work!?! pleeaase help! great guide! thanks alot!

If this error message appears in SimPE, it means you will have to install managed direct X 9 that there is a link to at the SimPE download page. You need that for working with meshes.

[Ginn123]

okay thanks.. can you give me a link to it?

[IgnorantBliss]

It's at the same page where you downloaded SimPE at the SimPE site :).

[Ginn123]

ive found it! great! thanks!!

[Ginn123]

when does part 3 arrive? I love the help the first 2 parts gave! thanks... :D

[mod_bv]

Part 3 is already here. It's on the site. Only thing is that I couldn't update the PDF yet.

[iloveuki]

i'm new with simPE i don't really know how to clone... help please???

[IgnorantBliss]

iloveuki, have you gone through this tutorial or the many other ones in the tutorial section? They will explain to you how to clone and object.

[makala1]

when u say ''toolbar'' what do u mean

[makala1]

oh i know now lol

[jamesyboy1990]

Uh my SimPE doesn't show up the way yours does. Instead of having the menu with the grouped objects, object listing, and load object it's just a screen and it says what the price is and stuff. Any suggestions to how I could do anything with this?

[deathgrip1092]

hey where do you find the end table folder? do you create it or is it found some where? You can tell im new but i just wanted to see if i could try this out!

[pellucid]

Brilliant mod_bv, I'm a newbie in modding. I followd your tutorial step by step carefully. But I'm not sure wheather there was any mistake I made since my SimPE is 0.58, which is different from yours. There're several differences in the interfaces of these two versions, some checkboxes, etc. When I lauched The Sims 2, I was told that my package was incompatible. Though I chose to open the package despite the disappointing notice, I couldn't find my modded cornerStone end table in the game -__-

What should I do?

[IgnorantBliss]

pellucid, do you have custom content enabled in the game? If not, you will have to enable it, then exit the game and restart it for custom content to show up. I've never heard of the game announcing incompatible objects, sounds like what you got was the custom content dialog that will list all objects as potentially incompatible, even if they aren't.

[pellucid]

Your reply is appreciated, IgnorantBliss.
I don't know there is an option to enable custom content. And most of the objects I downloaded works well. Maybe I didn't express myself clearly, but my game isn't an English version, so I don't know how is the error described in English version. The hint occurs when the game was loaded (not loading or before loading ) and before I choose a community to enter. It tells me that there is a problem with my content and which the suspected file(s) is(are). And it gives me two choices: cancel the bad content, or enable it anyway. In fact the suspected content worked when I choose neither to cancel it nor to enable it. The error disappears when I remove the ill xxx.package file from download folder.

[IgnorantBliss]

Try posting the package here as an attachment and someone can take a look.

[pellucid]

Here it is :)

[IgnorantBliss]

You have cloned an end table that is a "slave" to another object, and there are no textures or materials in the package (this shouldn't still make it incompatible, though). I'd recommend using the Crazy 8 end table as a base instead.

There is an up-to-date version of JWoods' object tutorial available (another sticky in the tutorial section) that is available for Wings 3D, as well. That might be easier to follow for a beginner since the SimPE version used in that is very close to 0.58 in its look.

[pellucid]

Appreciate you again, IgnorantBliss. I'm going to try the Crazy 8 end table immediately. And I'll read JWoods' tutorial and all the posts in it's thread soon.

[pellucid]

You're genius, IgnorantBliss! Following your advice, I succeeded in creating my first object! so happy!

By the way, I want to know what does GUID mean and how much attention should I pay to this parameter. And how can I find wheather an object is a "slave" to another one or not?
If these questions are boring, I'll try to find the answer in posts of existed.:)

THANK YOU !

[IgnorantBliss]

A GUID is a sort of a unique ID number that must be different for each object. It's very important to register a new GUID for each GUID in a cloned object to avoid conflicts with other objects and to make sure the recolors work.

The CEP thread has a list of all the Maxis objects (the file called "documentation") that mentions if an object is a slave.

[pellucid]

Your guideline is valuable for me. I'll learn on it!

[Cholmondely-Marjoribanks]

I don't find the plugin view :(

[IgnorantBliss]

I don't find the plugin view :(

At the bottom of the SimPE window you should see a tab called Plugin. If it's not there, go to the Window menu on top and select Plugin View from there, and now it should appear at the bottom.

[RockSteadyDude]

First of all, thanks a lot!! Its really great.

Second, my end table turned out as a block of wood, I think I did it wrong...so I will be trying again. But, I was wondering how do you edit the actual look of the end table? If I wanted to change say, the leg shape, can I use Wings to do this?

[Numenor]

Rock, it's not your fault: the tutorial, obviously, is simplified... Following exactly the tutorial you can only create a block of wood, just like yours.

You can modify the mesh at will, using Wings3D; but no one can create a tutorial that explains how to create every possible shape; so, the only way to learn is experimenting by yourself.

Anyway, if you read the Wings version of this tutorial (http://www.modthesims2.com/showthread.php?t=104795), you will find the instructions to create a dining table. It will be a good start, at least...

[RockSteadyDude]

Thank you!!

I will take a look and see what I come up with.

I just want to think the creator of this TUT, and also MTS2 for its great infomation!! Your all very helpful.

I can't open those files with the program I have. I use Openoffice, and it seems I cant get the files to load, only random letters and numbers appear.

Do you know of a way of opening these text files?

[IgnorantBliss]

RockSteadyDude, if you're talking about opening the other tutorial, the JWoods one, you need to first extract the RAR file with WinRAR or similar, and then you need a PDF viewer to view the tutorial. Open Office does not have a PDF viewer, but Foxit software PDF viewer is free, and so is the Adobe Acrobat Reader.

[mod_bv]

Yes, when I started this tutorial I hadn't realized that the end table I was cloning was a slave. I realized that when I started Part 2.

[wonderstar]

erm.....i can't find where to download wings...in...their...website

[IgnorantBliss]

wonderstar, at their front page, on the left hand side, you see a box called "news". Under that you see "Latest stable release" and then the link for "win" under it. Click that.

[calinselene]

:lol: thank you so much for this tutorial- At the end of the process i was pathetically happy to see my little brown box-type endtable in the game- and it worked! ;-) :beer: :Pint:

[Afraid Of Deathi]

:sheep: :sheep: :sheep: Yay!, it's my first mesh! I've saved this tutorial to my favourites folder because there is no way i'll be able to remember all of it! :sheep: :sheep: :sheep:

[taha]

Thanks a lot MOd Bv
but I want more tutorials

...
Where is Part 2.....

[tiggerypum]

taha,

I'm assuming this tutorial is complete, if a bit elderly.

Writing a step by step tutorial with screenshots and explanations takes a LONG time. The goal of most tutorials is to give you enough info to get started and to show the Sims specific aspects of how to make things.

After a beginners tutorial, you can learn how to use your 3D editor better by using tutorials from the web - just to learn how to do it. Do whatever projects they suggest, just to learn more tools. Then come back and apply what you've learned to making more interesting objects for the game. The techniques for most game objects will be the same - you'll need to bring in a game mesh so that you can get the height and positioning correct, you'll need to uvmap your new mesh, and bring it into the game files.

[masterjosh]

i got a more recent version of simPE does anyone know any tutorials for it

[IgnorantBliss]

This (http://www.modthesims2.com/showthread.php?t=104795) tutorial should work with the most recent version of SimPE.

[masterjosh]

thanx iIgnorantBliss

[TimSimser]

Hello,

I followed all the steps the same as in the tut and when I start The Sims 2 My "download" stood in the list with downloads (where you have to allow downloads) but when I checked my endtables in the build mode I came to the very dissapointing fact that there was no endtable from me. :cry:

But the endtable I used to clone had a downloading sign. :rolleyes:

(I'm sorry for my English ;))

[IgnorantBliss]

Do you mean the original Maxis table you used for cloning has the custom content symbol on it? Then that means that your table, or some other custom content, is probably conflicting with it. Did you make sure you got new GUIDs for all the GUIDs in the clone?

[TimSimser]

Yes that signs that you get when you have a downloaded object


And Yes I got the guides

[IgnorantBliss]

It's hard to say what the problem is, then, or if it's even a problem with your table. Have you tried removing your table from the Downloads folder and see if the Maxis table returns to normal?

[TimSimser]

I solved it, I made a mistake at step 10.
I didn't changed the modelname, but now I did and my object worked.

By the way, thanks for this excellent tutorial.

Tim

[TimSimser]

From what I can see from the Wings 3D screen, you need to combine those circles into one big object. You do this by selecting all the objects in the mesh. Then you choose the one you want all of them to be named. Now you right-click, and there shall be an option that says 'Combine'. Click it. You are done!

P.S. After you do the combine, I recommend doing the whole object making process over again, skipping the meshing portions, as to keep from mistakes.

I don't get the option combine :cry:

[Numenor]

In order to have the option "Combine", be sure that the last (rightmost) of the 4 red pyramids is selected (group selection mode); and then click on the groups that you want to combine until they all appear coloured in red (selected). As an alternative, you can select whole models directly from the Geometry Graph, clicking on the red pyramid next to each group name.
Then right-click on the mesh and you should see the "Combine" option.

[TimSimser]

ok thanks I didn't knew it had to be in the last piramide. :gjob:

[Inge Jones]

I hope this is the right place, but I have two faces both facing out the same way, with their adjacent edges pretty much the same length and more or less touching. They were not joined before because they belonged to two separate objects which had started off separate due to the way I wanted to UV map them.

Now I would love to weld the two pairs of matching vertices, and/or make them share an edge, but I cannot perform the weld procedure because the vertices are too close together. I can select them both together in a marquee, but I can't select them individually one after the other like the Weld option seems to demand.

I *could* do them in Milkshape which allows you to marquee your vertices and then weld them, but I can't do that either because there are other vertices dirrectly in line in all the available view directions.

I want to join the faces into one plane because of that slight shading anomaly you get when they are not contiguous.

[Numenor]

Only the latest Wings 0.98.35 has a vertex welding function, but it can't weld vertices in different objects: the vertices to weld must share an edge.
In cases like this, I usually ensure that the vertices are exactly coincident by selecting each pair and then doing a "scale uniform" to the 0%.

Then, I load the mesh in UVmapper (even the Classic works) and perform a "Weld Vertices". Note that UVmapper only welds vertices perfectly coincident.

[Inge Jones]

Thanks, I didn't think of doing it in UVmapper! I will give that a go.

[Inge Jones]

Just an update - no, UVmapper wouldn't touch those vertices. It did delete a few when I asked it. I had taken the object through Milkshape (I did finally manage to find the unselect method, which is shift right-click lasso) and flattened the vertices in all 3 directions. Wings was showing 3 vertices there, but there should only have been two from memory of what I had done there. I think something's got corrupted along the way so I am going to start again on that part!

[Numenor]

Perhaps I didn't understand... The vertices once belonged to different objects, but now they belong to the same group, right? Then, if they are perfectly coincident (distance = 0.0), UVmapper should do the welding correctly... I do that all the times :)
But anyway, you have found your way, and this is the important thing ;)

[Inge Jones]

That's right - they *were* different groups (milkshape) or objects (wings) to start with so I could map them more easily. Then I combined them all into one group or object with a view to making the final tidyings to the mesh. But no matter how hard I tried to weld those vertices nothing happened (even though Milkshape if it was failing did so without complaint) and there was still a tiny line like a crack visible. I have changed my design slightly and it's all looking fine so far.

[coricaman]

thanks, Milkshape never worked for me.

[TimSimser]

Hi

I want to give the endtable a different color but I don't know how to do that. I've searched for 3 days on the internet to find anything but I didn't understood or I was supposed to use a program were I had to pay for ( and I won't.) :p :cry:

Can you explain me how I make my endtable have an aluminium look or glass or something else, because I don't like the wooden endtable :P

[Numenor]

Don't confuse the creation of a new object (which this tutorial refers to) with creating an alternate colour for an existing object (so-called "recolouring").

There are several tutorials for recolouring:
- Wizards of SimPE (http://www.modthesims2.com/showthread.php?t=86424) (the easiest, but applie to Maxis object only)
- Recolouring Objects with Object Workshop (http://www.modthesims2.com/showthread.php?t=102356) (all objects, including custom ones)

The easiest thing to try is to create a different colour for the same material (e.g. recolour a wooden table with a different colour of wood); you can also apply a "metallic" texture on a wooden table, but in order to improve the reflection you have to modify other files than the simple texture, and this isn't explained in the tutorials.
Creating a glass surface where the original is opaque is even harder. I suggest you to try easier recolours, first.

[TimSimser]

Yes but I want to give my object that I've made in wings 3d my own colors

[Numenor]

Ah! Sorry, I've misunderstood :P -
Once you have completed this tutorial, open the package of your new table and replace the texture with another one.

Read about replacing textures in this tutorial (http://www.modthesims2.com/showthread.php?t=102356) (read the Step 3).

[TimSimser]

I don't get the option texture image in the recource tree, and I think it's not the way I want to do it because if I do it like that tutorial I can't stipulate( :blink: ) the places for my colors.

I thougt I had to made a texture in a program (in most tutorials they use photoshop pro I thougt but I want to get a free one(and which I can use the best???). And then you had to import that texture as an UV's or something like that:rolleyes: in UV mapper and than I could stipulate my colors in UV mapper on the right places.

[lineeeeh]

great totorial ! :)
but !, (why does there always have to be a but !?) when i start the simPe and go to tools, and then object creation, and objects workshop, there arent any opsions for me ? :S
how can that be?

(sorry about it if there are any spelling mistakes or anything i wrote wrong, im dane (: )

[Numenor]

Lineeeeh, be aware that in the Tool menu there are *two* Object Workshop: the normal one (keyboard shortcut CTRL+W) and the "windowed" one, that is obsolete and should not be used.

If you *have* selected the right one, and you don't see any option, be sure that the drop-down menu on the top showd "clone" and not "recolour".

If these suggestions don't work, please post a screenshot.

[mod_bv]

Oliver, you can install SimPE to wherever you want.

[oliverret0]

ohh dident realise dat lol...ty

[PlyPencil]

My wings 3D imports the tabel sideways. Why does that happen?.

[IgnorantBliss]

If the Order in your GMDC tab (on the same page where the Export button is) is set to XYZ, try changing it to XZY and then export again.

[youcmecruzin13]

Can you please make that tutorial to make clothes in wings 3d? Please Please im working on Unofficial stuff pack and need some new clothes to finish!

[Numenor]

Clothes can't be done in Wings, because Wings doesn't manage the joints (required for the clothings to work in game). The only option that I know of, is Milkshape and its built-in "Unimesh" plugin.

[youcmecruzin13]

UPDATE: Everyone has been asking, and the time has come. I will next be working on a new mesh clothing tutorial for Wings 3D, which will be followed by a Wings 3D hair tutorial.

I thought i heard people use vertice mapper to do it! Maybe not? :cry:

[TheSmi]

Right, I've done everything up to step 19 correctly (I hope...), but there's nothing in the bottom window of SimPE when I try to move on. That shouldn't be! :( Should it?

[sims2!]

ok i on't undrrstand downlaoding the wings 3d I'm soooo sorry if i'm anoyying!By asking this QS kk

nvm got it!

ummm trouble with #7!Whats an end table folder?

[Numenor]

It's the work forder where you are going to save your new end table (the actual package will be saved there in step #11).

I think that Mod_BV has swapped the two phases (cloning the object and creating the mesh), and forgot to edit the step #7.

[sims2!]

ok so just save wherever kk i get it thankies

[sims2!]

whats simPE i know i am not soo smart at computers!
But i would like it very much to know.well i prob know but just call it by s full name sooo if someone could tell me i would love that!

[Khaibit]

First of all: at the bottom right side if your postings there is an "Edit" button - next to "Quote" - so you don't have to fill threads with posts only on your own ;) :p
Edit: imagine, they even added a "Delete" button to get rid of double postings... they must have been in a generous mood when adding buttons... :D

I guess you shoud start here (http://www.modthesims2.com/showthread.php?t=85042), a useful link collection...

SimPe is the program you need to prepare your packages, it is able to read the file structure of Maxis' Sims2 file formats. Take a look at the FAQ and the forum on the SimPe site for further info. :)

[KeeKee]

I would first off like to say thank u for this tut and to everyone involved in the process. BUT, (sorry theres a BUT) I have some major problems. PART 2 is suppose to be easier but its confusing. :faceslap: I have no idea what I have done wrong. I think I am a very capable person and able to follow simple instructions but not with this. When I get to Step23 and when told to import mesh file using wings 3d my screen shows different than yours. Your Screen shot only shows (material2 and materials) in the Geometry Graph. But on my screen I have (materials, cube1, cube1) I know that I i then supposed to rename cube1 to say materials 2.....But I have another Cube1, do I suppose to have this? Do I delete it or leave It? My brother says to delete it but even then the object doesn't show in game, (atleast with mine i just had an oversize cube) Can you or Anyone else help Me? Maybe a need a TUT 4 DUMMIES :cry:

[TimSimser]

Hi I've got a problem I made an ceiling lamp but when I watn to import it it says that there's a problem with parshing the file How can I solve this

Thanx Tim

[Numenor]

KeeKee - The "cube1" should have been remaned to "materials" in step 15. Probably you have selected by mistake the menu "Duplicate" instead of "Rename", and therefore you now have two meshes "cube1" instead of one mesh named "materials".

TimSimser - The "parsing problem" usually happens if you try to import in SimPE an OBJ file created by Wings. You must load the OBJ in UVmapper, save it and then load it in SimPE.

[TimSimser]

well I have done that

[Numenor]

Timsimser, please zip the OBJ file that gives error and post it here, please; I will take a look.

But before doing that, please open the OBJ file with the Notepad (it's a text file) and read the first line: it should be: "# file generated by UVMapper"

[TimSimser]

I'm verry sorry but what's the notepad :blink:

I'v post the object here so you can look at it despite i haven't opened it in the notepad

[merzitar]

Woah! It seems really complicated but I'll give it a try becuase I don't think i'll mess up my game because I have got your Tutorial to guide me.

Thanks for sharing.

[refika]

I cant download uvmapper i cant upon the site... please help

[Numenor]

TimSimser - I wans't clear in my request: I need the .OBJ file (the one you are trying to import in SimPE and gives the parsing error).
BTW, the "Notepad" is the text editor that comes with Windows. Any text editor can open the .obj files, because they are just plain text.

Refika - UVmapper site seems working fine in this moment...

[TimSimser]

owk I'm sorry I thought that second one was the one but I've upload the object file now (I thing :blink: )


And why do I get this shadows in my chair? (I've made that curves with extruding)

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n11/Tim_011/thumbnail_91933ae8_f26368cd.jpg

[Numenor]

TimSimser, your mesh had several problems.

1) It contained "degenerated" faces, i.e. irregular faces that couldn't be read by SimPE (hence the error while importing). This was fixed with UVmapper Pro (menu Tool / Facets / Degenerated)

2) The mesh was not triangulated: before exporting the mesh from Wings, go to "Face selection mode" (third little pyramid from the left) and select the whole mesh; then right-click and choose Tesselate/Triangulate. If you don't, SimPe will read the mesh, but it will be invisible in game.

3) After these fixes, the mesh still had more than 3500 vertices and more than 7000 facets: way too many! I've reduced the number of facets to 3500, with a very little decay in the detail (check by yourself: in game you won't notice any difference). this "reduction" has been performed by the DirectX tool included in Milkshape.

4) The mesh contained 5 groups: 3 "fixture", a "globe" and a "bulb"; the three "fixture" had to be combined together (in Wings, select the mesh you want to combine, go to "Model selection mode", i.e. the last pyramid on the right, right-click and choose "Combine").

5) All the group names ended with "_default", or "_default2", ecc.. This happense because Wings, by default, appends the name of the material to the mesh, while exporting. The next time you export an OBJ, select the menu Export / Wavefront, and then click on the little square next to the word "Wavefront": an option panel will pop up, and you have to *deselect* the option "one group per material". Wings will remember this setting for all the future exports.

I'm attaching your original mesh, fixed; and also the same mesh with the lower vertex/face count. I'm giving you both, so that you can compare them; but don't post your chandelier with the huge mesh, it's definitely too big for the average PC specs.

[TimSimser]

thank you verry much numenor you've helped me a lot.

A little question again :blink: why do I get shadows in my object when I extrude them ( and are there better free programs than wings 3d (where I don't get these shadows)

:gjob: :gjob:

[Numenor]

Shadows? Please post a screenshot (bigger than the previous one, lol! )

[TimSimser]

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n11/Tim_011/snapshot_91933ae8_f26368cd.jpg

that stripes/shadows they move if you move the screen and they're supposed to be plain but they aren't at all! :cry: :P

and another thing
I downloaded some object from a site to look how it's all constructed and sometimes there are blue things in wings 3d what is that where is it for and how do I make them?

(I hope I'm not ignorant with all my questions :( )

[merzitar]

Hey, I followed your Tut and it was really helpful, But A li'l problem occurd.
When I opend the game to use my file, The Object is Invisible.

Please could you send me the way to fix this by PM AND as a post on here so that It can help other people.

Thanks though, It was a good tut.

[Khaibit]

Please could you send me the way to fix this by PM AND as a post on here so that It can help other people.
If you think you can only be helped with a PM just copy the answer of this thread and send it with a PM to you (it works, I send from time to time "do not forget this" PMs to myself :D) :lol:
And to fix the problem... I guess there are several possibilities which cause invisible meshes (a double in use GUID, several subsets with the same names, linking troubles within the package because of naming troubles in the SHPE or CRES etc. etc. etc.) so if Numenor knows one 100% working fix for every case I'd like to know it, too. (@ Numenor: this would be not just a clever but even brilliant solution ;) :D)

Merzitar, some more infos or even the package could help helping ;)

[Numenor]

TimSimser - Again, I think that it's a problem of smoothing: unfortunately, the smoothing applied by Wings is not correctly recognized by other software...
Anyway, try this:

1) If you have UVmapper PRO, then it's easy: load the mesh, select the menu Tools / Vertices / Weld and then the menu Tools / Normal / Smooth (us a low value, I'd say about 35-40). Then save the mesh and load it into SimPE.

2) If you use UVmapper Classic, then you don't have a smoothing feature; you have to select the menu Rdit / Tools / Weld vertices and save the mesh. Then load it again into Wings, select the whole mesh (be sure to be in Model Selection mode, i.e. the last pyramid), right-click and select the little box next to the entry "Auto Smooth"; choose a low value (about 35-40). Export the mesh, loas it in Uvmapper and save it again. Then load the mesh in SimPE.

As for the "blue things", can they be actually "blue faces", i.e. parts of the mesh painted in blue? Those are "hole" faces, i.e. faces that exist in the mesh, but are invisible outside the 3D editor. If you select one of them, you will read in the upper left corner: "material hole".


Merzitar - Read this article:
Modding Infocenter - Invisible and flashing blue custom objects: Check List (http://www.modthesims2.com/showthread.php?t=44997).
It's not exactly recent (it was posted back in Feb 2005) but it's still valid :)

Khaibit - Take a look at that article, you too: that is my personal idea of a check list! :lol:

[Khaibit]

that is my personal idea of a check list! :lol: :rofl: Yes, I noticed - that's why I want to improve checklists :P I wanted to copy&paste everything, add tons of text, go on using the SimPe CEP link ( :P BTW version 5 works perfectly :D) and offer this checklist as 'written by me'... :faceslap: Now you got me...
Your checklist doesn't work for the drum kit trouble so it's just a clever solution... :D

[TimSimser]

problem again
when I try to reimport it in wings 3d there doesn't appear anything
(i'm not using UV mapper Pro)

so is it possible that I export my object from wings to blender and that I do something at blender with the autosmooth (or something like that) and then to uv mapper classic so that my problem is gone.

So my question is this possible and what do I have to do at Blender.

[Numenor]

I can't answer to your question: I don't know Blender or how it manages files exported by Wings. Few persons, I think, know and use both Wings and Blender...

I know that sometimes Wings can't load an OBJ file because it has some kind of problem; but usually, loading and saving the file with UVmapper (even the Classic version) fixes the OBJ format, so that Wings can load it.

[DocFX]

Cheers!, this has been a great resource of ideas and very useful to a 'Newbie' TS-2 mesher like myself - thanks to all involved!... ;)

[Blacksmith2]

i can do everything up to no.12 but when i click object data nothing happens. in fact nothing i press in the resource tree opens. ??HELP????

[cokenasmile]

Blacksmith2, You need to click the Object Data not only in the resource tree, but again in the window to the right, the resource list, and make sure you are in the plugin view.

[esjay731]

Anyone have the 3rd part of the tutorial..

[Numenor]

The "3rd part" doesn't exist; I don't know what it was supposed to explain, but anyway when you have finished parts 1 & 2, your job is done.

Mod_bv, before moving away from MTS2, appended this "3rd part" to the original post:


Part 3: You Win!!
45. Put the PACKAGE file into the Downloads folder. You win! :rofl: :puppy:
46. Use the item.
47. Hit the thank you button down there.
48. Ask Delphy why llamas can't talk.
49. Tell 5 friends about llamas.
50. You WIN!!!!


So, there is no real 3rd part of this tutorial, because there is no need for it.

[Khaibit]

:lol:
Cool! :up:
And what's the price?
Delphy better offers the answer in one site news message instead of answering again and again... :D

Indeed, this link is totally broken and well, is part 3 supposed to be about texturing? A kind of (confusing) "off topic" anyway, isn't it? There are tutorials available on MTS2 helping out, too. :)

mod_bv, maybe clarifying your text about part 3 (and link fixing) might be helpful, even more helpful than Numenor's... helpful comment :D Not as funny but well... :)

[Rami Moulham]

Its really great thanks...
but I just wanted to ask you?
In step 21 and 22, I have somthing wrong...
there is no box to check

[Numenor]

Khaibit - Which link is broken? Anyway, Mod_bv is no longer available: this tutorial stops at part 2 :P -

Rami - A screenshot would help... You mean that in step 21, in the list of "Models", there are no models listed?

[Khaibit]

Maybe the option to mark *your profile* as N/A would be helpful to avoid talking to not longer used profiles would make sense :D At least talking to *noone* could be avoided :lol: That's strange.

So do you think editing again to avoid possible confusions would make sense? I mean I understood this part 3 as a texturing tutorial so it's another topic - am I the only confused one, as usual? :D
As it won't be continued anymore, this topic is finished and Mod_bv won't do it on his own... maybe your comment isn't helpful enough this time, just a good laugh but not "clear" to beginners??? :)

I mean this link (http://d2x.examp.com/DSims/) to his site - doesn't work for me.

[cellar_door]

Um... I need help... Where is the "End Table Folder" that you have to save the mesh in? I've been looking for it for a long time and I can't find it.

[Mylipsonyours]

Nothing happens when i click on object workshop????

[Numenor]

Try the menu: Tools -> Object Creation -> Object Workshop
Or simply use the shortcut CTRL+W

If nothing works, go to Extra -> Preferences -> SimPE Settings and click "Reset Layout"; then try again the Object Workshop icon / menu / shortcut.

Cellar Door: it's the folder where you saved your mesh, so you should know where it is...

[MissSimGameFan]

The table mesh won't show up in Wings3D! It just shows that box! :cry:
I've imported the mesh several times and nothing works!