Vertex Volumes is an add-on that provides a Geometry modifier that allows you to define volumes using faces and per-vertex radii.   The add-on uses faces to define volume by interpolating radius values between the vertices that make up the face.  This is particularly useful to combine with the shrinkwrap modifier for detailing work, such as muscles for a character.

Installation instructions are available within the provided files and at the bottom of this page.

If you prefer to get the add-on on Blender Market, you can check it out here:

https://blendermarket.com/products/vertex-volumes

Compatible with Blender  4.1+.

Features

Per-Vertex Radii

You can set a radius for each vertex, allowing for varied shapes while retaining the original geometry.  The direction the radius expands is relative to the face normal.  Press Shift + R to change the radius on selected vertices in Edit Mode.

Per-Vertex Offset

You can set an offset each vertex along the face normal in either direction while retaining the original geometry.  Press Shift +T to change the offset on selected vertices in Edit Mode.

Expansion Direction

You can set which direction the radius values expands on by defining a number from -1 to 1.  By default, 0 will cause the geometry to expand on both directions equally, while -1 and 1 will cause the geometry to expand in the corresponding direction fully.  This value can be adjusted either via the add-on side panel or on the Geometry modifier itself.

Seamless Modifier Integration

Vertex Volumes integrate seamlessly with Blender's modifier stack system, thus allowing for more flexibility and creative possibilities.  (Fun fact: the model below only uses 3 vertices!)

Installation Instructions

Download and Unzip Vertex Volumes-Addon.zip.

You will see two zip files:

• The_3DMage_AddonWrangler.zip
• Vertex_Volumes.zip

DO NOT UNZIP THESE TWO ZIP FILES!

Follow the installation instructions according to your version of Blender:

Blender 4.2 +

1. Go to Edit  > Preferences.
2. Click the Add-ons tab.
3. Click the Add-ons Settings button on the top right corner of the window.
   1. Click Install from Disk
   2. Select The_3DMage_AddonWrangler.zip and then click Install from Disk.
4. Click the Add-ons Settings button on the top right corner of the window.
   1. Click Install from Disk
      
   2. Select Vertex_Volumes.zip and then click Install from Disk.
5. Save your preferences.

Blender 4.0– 4.1

1. Go to Edit  >  Preferences.
2. Click the Add-ons tab.
3. Click the  Install button.
   1. Select The_3DMage_AddonWrangler.zip and then click Install Add-on. 
   2. Enable System: 3D Mage Addon Wrangler if not already enabled.
4. Click the Install button.
   1. Select Vertex_Volumes.zip and then click Install Add-on. 
      
   2. Enable Mesh: Vertex Volumes if not already enabled.
5. Save your preferences.

Quick Start Guide

1. In Object Mode, open the Vertex Volumes Side Panel menu by clicking the Vertex Volumes tab.
2. Click Create Vertex Volumes Object to create a new object with the Vertex Volumes Geometry modifier.  Alternatively, you can select an existing object and add the the Vertex Volumes Geometry Modifier to its modifier stack.   Make sure it is selected 
   (TIP: Make sure the object is planar.  Solid objects don't do well with this add-on).
3. Go to Edit Mode:

   
   

   • Press Shift + R on selected vertices to enter Radius Mode:
     • Move mouse right to increase radius.
     • Move mouse left to decrease radius.
     • Left-click or press Enter to confirm.
     • Right-click or press Esc to cancel.
   • Press Shift + T on selected vertices to enter Offset Mode:
     • Move mouse right to increase offset.
       
     • Move mouse left to decrease offset.
     • Left-click or press Enter to confirm.
     • Right-click or press Esc to cancel.