The Loop Cut tool in Blender is used to create a new edge (along with faces and vertices) that loops entirely or partially around the mesh of your model. With more components to work with, you can create all kinds of details and intricate designs.
Insert Loop Cuts
Use the Insert Loop cut tool to add additional components to a cube:
1. In a new Blender project, select the cube primitive.
2. Switch to Edit Mode.
3. Select the Loop Cut tool on the left of your viewport.
4. Hover over your cube and click to add a loop cut.
5. Add another loop cut on your shape.
Now, you may have noticed that the Loop Cut always centers itself on a face or side of your shape. What if you want to freely move that cut along your shape?
Position the Loop Cut
You can slide your loop cut around your shape on the coordinates of your choosing rather than it snapping to the center.
1. With the Loop Cut tool, position your mouse over where you want to cut.
2. Click and drag to add your loop cut anywhere on the shape.
TIP: Once you release the mouse button, the loop cut is permanent! You'll need to use ALT click to select the entire loop and the Move tool if you want to reposition your loop cut.
Tool Settings
If you want equal space and multiple edge loops at once, you can change the settings for the Loop Cut tool. This would be beneficial for making equal spaced indents in an object, or for example matching legs for a chair.
1. Select File > New > General to create a new scene and don't save.
2. In Edit Mode, select the Loop Cut tool.
3. Click once to add a loop cut. Do NOT select anywhere else on your screen.
4. Click the Loop Cut and Slide box in the bottom left corner to open it.
5. In the Number of Cuts value, type "4".
TIP: Be careful not to place too many edge loops at once! When models have a lot of components, they could end up looking lumpy, so it's best to avoid that.
Great! You used the Loop Cut tool to break apart your shapes with edges. Now you can edit edges and faces within simple shapes. From here, practice using the Loop Cut tool to add more edges and make a unique shape.
Need help? Schedule an online private lesson in 3D modeling with Blender right now.