-
Create a root joint at the character's center (hips/pelvis).
Add spine joints for the back, neck, and head.
Set up joints for shoulders, arms, hips, and legs.
Include finger and toe joints for realistic movement.
Ensure correct joint orientation for proper rotation.
Set up IK/FK controls for limbs.
Mirror joints for symmetrical characters.
-
Model the character's face.
Add facial joints for control.
Bind the face model to the joints for deformation.
Create blendshapes for different facial expressions.
Create custom controls for animators.
Connect controls to blendshapes to drive expressions.
Add extra features like eye and mouth controls.
Test and refine the rig for accuracy.
Use facial rigging utilities if available.
Document the rig and clean up the Maya scene.
-
Select the character mesh that is already rigged.
Go to Skin > Edit Smooth Skin > Paint Skin Weights Tool.
Choose the joint I want to paint weights for.
Adjust the brush settings (size, strength, etc.).
Check and test the character's deformation as painting.
Repeat for other joints as needed.
Fine-tune and refine the weights for natural deformations.
Test the character's animation to ensure smooth movement.