Setting up empty weights
To get started, let’s set up some empty weights. Use Armature Deform | With Empty Groups, as this option generates groups with empty weights. If we leave the weights up to Blender by choosing the default options, we are guaranteed to have to clean up a frustrating mess.
We will start by parenting the mesh to the rig we have just made, and then we will enter Weight Paint Mode. If you have forgotten how exactly to do this, here’s a quick series of steps as a reminder:
- In Object Mode, select all the meshes (head, body, hands, feet).
- Staying in Object Mode, press Shift to select the armature.
- Press Ctrl + P to open the parenting menu, and select Armature Deform | With Empty Groups.
You can verify this has worked by grabbing the armature and dragging it around; all the mesh will follow. If any mesh doesn’t follow, you can just select said meshes and parent them on their own, and they will be added.
- If for some reason this...