Hard-Surface 3D-VR Mech Design by Corey Gooch

Ready to build some awesome mechs? This workshop dives into designing and sculpting a conceptual mech, starting in VR with Adobe Substance 3D Modeler, then refining it in ZBrush, and finally getting it ready for presentation in Blender. It’s a solid workflow for anyone looking to create professional-looking sci-fi assets.

🎯 What you’ll learn

• Master the fundamentals of sculpting in Substance 3D Modeler‘s VR environment.
• Learn professional approaches to reference collection and integration.
• Discover techniques for achieving both organic and mechanical forms.
• Optimize models in ZBrush for rigging, texturing, and animation.
• Understand the basics of rigging, texturing, and animating in Blender.
• Gain insights into preparing models for 3D printing.
• Develop a professional decision-making process focused on functionality and problem-solving.

✅ Requirements

• Skills: Familiarity with 3D modeling concepts is helpful.
• Tools: Adobe Substance 3D Modeler, ZBrush, Blender, PureRef.
• Hardware: VR headset compatible with Substance 3D Modeler.

📝 Description

This workshop is your ticket to mastering hard-surface mech design using a cutting-edge workflow that blends VR sculpting with traditional 3D tools. Corey Gooch, a seasoned Visual Development Artist, walks you through the entire process, from initial concepting in Substance 3D Modeler to detailed refinement in ZBrush and final presentation in Blender. You’ll learn how to collect and use references effectively, sculpt both organic and mechanical shapes in VR, and optimize your models for various pipelines, including 3D printing and animation. Corey shares his professional insights, explaining the “why” behind his design choices and how to solve problems creatively. By the end, you’ll have a strong command of Substance 3D Modeler and a clear understanding of how to bring your mechanical concepts to life.

🧑‍🎓 Who this course is for

• Beginner and intermediate artists looking to expand into VR sculpting workflows.
• Concept artists, visual development artists, and 3D specialists interested in mechanical design.
• Game developers, toy designers, and artists focused on 3D printing.
• Anyone wanting to learn an industry-tested pipeline for creating production-ready mechanical designs.

🧑‍🏫 About the Author

Corey Gooch is a freelance concept designer and 3D generalist with a diverse background that includes aviation, illustration, and world design. He’s known for combining technical skill with creative vision to produce compelling designs across many fields. Corey is also passionate about mentoring, offering private guidance to aspiring artists and exploring new ways to help the next generation work smarter, improve their skills, and reach their creative goals.

🏁 Final Result

• A portfolio-ready, conceptual mech design, sculpted and refined using a professional VR and 3D modeling pipeline. You’ll have a solid understanding of how to approach complex mechanical designs from concept to presentation.