The Grouping Tool: An Introduction

The Grouping Tool is one of the most powerful features in Poser, but also probably one of the least used. Put simply, it allows you to add new material groups to existing figures or props, create entirely new props; to alter Poser's automatic edge smoothing and plays a crucial part in the creation of new posable figures within Poser.

Here, we are going to create two series of tutorials on using the grouping tool. The first will take you through each option on the Group Editor, explaining what they do and how to use them. The second will use those tools to create particular effects, such as adding a 'New Romantic' band across a figures nose.

So, what exactly does the grouping tool do? It allows you to select individual polygons on a prop or body part and then alter them is some way. You can create a new material, assign an existing material, create a prop from the group or even alter the UV mapping of the group, amongst other things.

The main limit on the grouping tool is that it depends on the polygons built into the model being altered. If your prop or figure has not been modeled in the way that you need, then the grouping tool can't help you. To give an example, if you were hoping to add a new hem material to a dress, then you will need the dress to have been modeled with one or two rows of polygons running around the bass - diagonals or zig-zags will not do.

The grouping tool works slightly differently when used within the setup room. These tutorials will the normal operation of the tool. I'll return to the setup room at a later date.

Tutorials by Tool

New Group (and adding to your selection)
Create Prop
Spawn Props
Assign Material

Tutorials by Use

Add a new material to a prop
Add a new material to a figure
Add a new material to a clothing figure