The Theory Behind Grunge In 3D

Every 3D model will need layers of dirt or grunge to help it feel real.

These 4 steps break down a layered, real-life-based approach to adding grunge.

A base layer of grunge creates a solid foundation.

It will also make sure that no part of your object is left looking too clean.

Use procedural noise to mix a light layer of dirt (either an image texture or more noise) over your object. This layer should appear very random, without any kind of pattern to it.

Make sure that your procedural noise is detailed enough to appear real.

Specific grunge is grunge you add in places where a specific kind of dirt would accumulate.

This effect is very important for realism.

Examples:

You’ll need to use image textures for this most of the time since you are trying to match a very specific look.

Dirt accumulates over time, especially in small cracks and crevices.

To recreate this effect in 3D, you can use ambient occlusion as a mask to control yet another layer of grunge, filling in any small cracks or tight gaps on your model.

It’s easy to make this layer too heavy, so use caution!

A layer of dust completes the grunge effect nicely. You want this effect to look like dust or dirt that has settled on your object over time.

Use a gradient or position map to control the dust and keep it mostly on the upward-facing parts of the model.

This layer needs to be fairly randomized to keep it from looking fake.

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That’s all! Remember that these steps are only a general guideline.

Recap: to create realistic grunge, think in layers.

Consider the forces in action around your object (footsteps, wind, rain, vehicle exhaust) and consider what kind of dirt they would create.

And….ask me any questions! ↓

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