Blender array and curve modifier tutorial
In this tutorial we will demonstrate two Blender modifiers in combination: The array and the curve modifier to align objects along a curve like that:
First let’s start with a simple object. I used the default cube, added a subsurface modifier and ended up with something like this:
The next step is to add an array modifier for this object to create many instances of the object. Switch to object mode, select the object and add an array modifier:
Now you can create many instances of your object when increasing the fixed count property and also make sure to set the relative offset to the right direction, in our case -1.0, for the other direction use a positive value:
But we want our objects to be aligned along a curve. To do this, we need to add a curve of course. Press Shift->A and add a circle curve for example:
Select the circle, press N to bring up the panel with the Transform properties and set the location to point 0,0,0:
The next thing we need to do in order to align our objects along this circle is to add a Curve modifier, which is also very simple. Open the modifiers panel and select Curve:
After that, use your circle as object in the curve modifier and set the deformation axis to -X:
Increase the fixed count property in your array modifier to a number so that the instances fit the whole circle:
Another cool thing you can do is to attach a second modifier now to duplicate the ring of objects along the Z-axis with the relative Z-offset changed:
As you can see, with very little effort you can get incredible results.
Of course you are not limited to circle curves, you can also use other curves like a path:
and then use this path object in your curve modifier instead of the circle:
Select the path in edit mode, extend the vertices of it (press E and move the mouse) or grab a vertex and move it around (press G key and move the mouse):
Other options you have is to select your object and change the size (S key):
Or play around with the relative offset property of the array modifier:
The curve and array modifiers are really useful features of Blender for various use-cases like creating bracelets, chains and many other assets.