Infinite Textures Addendum

Infinite Textures: Addendum

How-To by Alex Kiriako

Here is additional info that belongs under the "Next" heading in the "Infinite Mapping" article on page 15 of 3D Artist #25. The article explains how to map multiple textures to 3D Studio Max objects.

The article states that, in order to keep Multi/Sub-Object materials from tiling when changing the geometry of a whole object, it is necessary to collapse the stack. It also states that you should keep two copies of the multitextured object: one with collapsed geometry, and one uncollapsed copy in case any changes need to be made to the textures.
___ The correct and better solution to the texture tiling/cutoff problem can be found on page 7-10 of the Max Tutorials book. There it tells how to correctly return to the whole object level for further modifiers. Though the effect on textures isn't mentioned, the fact is that you don't have to collapse the geometry and keep two sets of objects.
___ By going to the last sub-object modifier item at the top of the stack and then applying another Edit Mesh modifier, you can apply any new whole object modifiers without the textures tiling or being cutoff. The trick here is to apply the Edit Mesh modifier and deselect the Sub-Object button before applying new modifiers. Any new whole object deformations will now occur with textures correctly following the deformations.
___ Looking at the modifier stack list, you'll note that there is no asterisk next to this last Edit Mesh modifier since it is not being applied to a sub-portion of the object. This effectively fixes all the changes made to the object so far, making it ready for yet another set of outrageous transformations and modifications.
___ A reminder: If you return to the base object level and change the geometry in any way, the texture will once again tile or cut off even with the above mentioned solution in place! One work-around in such cases is to go to each UVW Map modifier in the stack and refit it.

3DS Max User's Guide Additional References
Returning to the Whole Object level, 18-9
Using Multi/Sub-Object materials, 25-22

Revised: 13 Sep 00
http://www.3dartist.com/3dao/s/25/kainftxt.htm
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