Layering by Area

Starting from Version 2025.1, the Layering by Areas feature allows you to adjust the layering order of garment pieces in specific intersecting areas for accurate and realistic simulations. This is useful when a single pattern needs to be both above and below another pattern in different parts.

What are 3D Layers?

• 3D Layers control how pattern pieces overlap in the 3D window.
• The lower the layer number, the close the pattern simulates to the avatar. To learn more about 3D Layers, read the Understanding 3D Layers article.
• Layering by Areas allows more precise control when patterns need to overlap in specific areas.

Step-by-Step Guide to Layering by Areas

Example Scenario:

You have two back patterns, Pattern A and Pattern B:

• Pattern A fully overlaps Pattern B.
• You want the top part of Pattern A to go below Pattern B.

Here’s how to adjust:

1. Open the Styling Tool

   1. 1. Go to the Styling Tool.
      2. Find the Layering by Area section.

2. Create a New Group

   1. Click New Group. Choose either an oval or rectangle to define the area
   2. Choose either an oval or rectangle to define the area.

3. Select and Adjust the Shape

   1. In the 2D Window, click and drag to place the shape on the top part of Pattern A.

   2. Adjust the shape as needed

      1. Move the shape by dragging the edges of the shape.

      2. Rotate the shape using the Gizmo.

   3. For significant adjustments, delete and create a new shape.

4. Repeat for Pattern B

   1. Place another shape on Pattern B in the corresponding area.

5. Adjust Layer Order

   1. In the Context View, you can adjust the layer dragging the selections up or down. The higher it is, the higher the layer.

   2. Drag Pattern A's selection below Pattern B's selection. This ensures the top part of Pattern A is below Pattern B.

6. Simulate the Garment

   1. Dress the garment to view the results.

   2. The top of Pattern A will now be below Pattern B, while the rest remains above.

Another Use Case

• Layering Separate Areas: If you only want one side of a pattern to be layered differently, create separate selections.
  • For example, add a rectangle to each side of Pattern A’s shoulder.
  • Adjust layers so one side of the shoulder is below Pattern B while the other side is above.
• Loop Hem Label: You can add a loop hem using Layering by Area.

Error Handling

• If a group contains fewer than two areas, a warning icon will appear to indicate the issue.
• When there are conflicting orders across groups, an error message will be displayed.