Baking a custom Normal map

We will now learn how to create a custom Normal map pattern. Although these textures can be downloaded as at the beginning of this chapter, you are encouraged to bake the pattern yourself to learn how to create custom Normal maps. In the following steps, we will model and bake the custom pattern as a Normal map:

1. Shape a simple hexagon using a plane, as shown in Figure 10.17. Make sure to copy the exact measurements.

   It is important to use the same measurements because otherwise the texture will not be seamless, and there will be inconsistencies in the pattern.

Figure 10.17 – Modeling a hexagon

2. Inset the faces and push them down as shown in Figure 10.18.

Figure 10.18 – Insetting faces in the hexagon

3. Add an Array modifier with a Constant Offset value of 2m on the Y axis.

Figure 10.19 – Adding an Array modifier

4. Add...