# Hybrid Modeling with ZBrush > This workshop explores hybrid digital modeling workflows by integrating sculptural, parametric, and hard-surface design techniques. Centered around ZBrush as the primary tool, participants will develop intricate high-resolution geometries by bridging multiple software environmen… ## At a glance - Format: On-demand course - Price: €85.00 (list €100.00) - Difficulty: Beginner - Duration: 8 hours - Schedule: Jul 11-12, 2026 - Instructors: Saba Mahdavi - Categories: Architectural Design, 3D Modeling - Software: Adobe Illustrator, Rhinoceros 3D, ZBrush - Students: 15 - Rating: 5.0 / 5 - Canonical: https://paacademy.com/course/hybrid-modeling-with-zbrush - Enroll: https://paacademy.com/course/hybrid-modeling-with-zbrush --- ## About this course Hybrid Modeling with ZBrush is a two-day workshop on PAACADEMY that teaches complex 3D form-making through hybrid workflows across ZBrush, Rhinoceros 3D, and Adobe Illustrator. Participants learn hard-surface modeling using ZModeler, Live Booleans, and NanoMesh, then translate 2D drawings into 3D geometries refined in Rhino. The workshop concludes with a complete set of optimized 3D artifacts ready for rendering or 3D printing. ## What you'll learn - Introduction to the **ZBrush** interface and workflow - Hard-surface modeling using ZModeler and Live Booleans - Using NanoMesh, Snapshot, and array systems - Translating 2D drawings into 3D geometries - Hybrid workflows between ZBrush, Illustrator, and Rhino - Refining models for rendering and 3D printing ## Methodology In this workshop, participants will develop a hands-on workflow for creating complex hard surface geometries using ZBrush Pixologic tools such as ZModeler, Live Booleans, NanoMesh, and array operations. By the end of the first session, you will be able to construct detailed, high-resolution 3D forms ready for prototyping. This workshop will cover how to convert 2D patterns into 3D geometries and modify them in Rhinoceros, creating spatial forms and architectural elements. Participants will leave the workshop with a complete set of artifacts and tools, from concept to an optimized 3D model, ready for rendering or 3D printing. ### Program: **Day 01 — Foundations & Hybrid Setup** - Introduction to the workshop concept and workflow - Overview of ZBrush interface and core principles - Hard-surface modeling techniques using ZModeler, Live Booleans, and NanoMesh - Establishing a hybrid workflow between tools and design methods **Day 02 — Hybrid Geometry & Spatial Development** - Translating 2D drawings into 3D geometries - Spatial development and refinement in Rhinoceros 3D - Hybridizing and modifying geometries across platforms - Optimization and output preparation for rendering and 3D printing ## Curriculum ### Session 1 - Introduction & PAACADEMY Updates (06:24) - Introduction To ZBrush Basics (57:01) - Advanced Replication and Masking (53:58) - Hard Surface Topology & Boolean Operations (46:33) - Boolean Union & Assignments (46:59) ### Session 2 - Voxelization Detailing & Subtractions (50:46) - Refining Complex Silhouette Cuts (43:06) - Layered Vector Pattern Extrusions (44:53) - Rhino ZBrush Pattern Workflow (54:22) ## FAQ ### Do I need previous experience with ZBrush? Basic 3D modeling experience is recommended, but prior knowledge of ZBrush is not required. The workshop begins with the fundamentals before progressing to advanced hybrid modeling techniques. ### Will I learn how to combine ZBrush with Rhino and Illustrator? Yes. You'll learn a complete hybrid workflow, including translating 2D drawings from Adobe Illustrator into ZBrush, refining geometries, and further developing them in Rhinoceros 3D. ### What type of projects will I create during the workshop? Participants will create complex hard-surface models for use in architectural elements, digital fabrication, product design, visualization, and experimental design research. ### Which ZBrush tools will I learn to use? The workshop covers essential tools including ZModeler, Live Booleans, NanoMesh, array systems, masking, extraction techniques, and workflows for creating detailed hard-surface geometries. ### Can I apply these workflows to architectural design projects? Yes. The techniques taught in the workshop are applicable to architectural modeling, conceptual design, visualization, digital fabrication, and experimental design. ### What is ZBrush used for in architecture and design? ZBrush is used in architecture and design for high-resolution 3D form-making, hard-surface modeling, and the creation of complex geometry for fabrication and visualization. Tools like ZModeler, Live Booleans, and NanoMesh allow designers to develop intricate architectural artifacts, research prototypes, and VFX-oriented spatial elements with precise control over surface detail. ### What does the Hybrid Modeling with ZBrush workshop cover? The workshop covers ZBrush interface fundamentals, hard-surface modeling with ZModeler and Live Booleans, NanoMesh and array systems, translating 2D Illustrator drawings into 3D geometries, spatial development in Rhinoceros 3D, and model optimization for rendering and 3D printing. The two-day program moves from foundations and hybrid setup to full geometry development and output preparation. ### What level is the Hybrid Modeling with ZBrush workshop? The workshop is aimed at designers and architects who want to expand into sculptural and hard-surface digital workflows. While no extensive ZBrush background is required, familiarity with 3D modeling concepts and basic software environments is beneficial for keeping pace with the two-day intensive format. ### What will I produce by the end of the Hybrid Modeling workshop? Participants leave with a complete set of high-resolution 3D artifacts developed through hybrid workflows across ZBrush, Rhino, and Illustrator, from initial 2D concept to an optimized 3D model ready for rendering or physical 3D printing.