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Non-Fiction Books

One of the things I really enjoy doing is sharing knowledge. I spent some time teaching in a classroom at the college level and that was great, but I’ve found that books are an excellent way to serve artists and creatives in our pursuit of taking what’s in our heads and getting it out in whatever medium we choose. So I’ve written a few over the years. Hopefully you find them helpful.

Blender For Dummies

4th edition
Blender For Dummies

Blender For Dummies is the quick and easy guide to learning 3D modeling animation using the popular, free, open-source Blender software. We’re in the 4th edition of this book now and it’s still serving well as a great beginner’s reference for Blender. The 4th edition covers all the updated user interface changes introduced in the 2.8x release series.

This book helps you get your own start in creating three-dimensional characters, scenes, and animations in the popular free and open-source tool. The companion web site (blenderbasics.com) provides access to additional tutorials that give you the confidence you need to start building and animating quickly. With the web site, this useful guide blends the functionality of a reference with the hands-on learning that develops your skills and understanding in a flash.

Blender For Dummies

GIMP Bible

GIMP Bible

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free, open source image manipulation program that runs on Linux, Windows, and Mac OS X. GIMP Bible is a comprehensive and independent GIMP reference that (in many ways) goes beyond the official documentation.

If you’re a digital artist, photographer, or a beginner, the step-by-step explanations in this authoritative guide show you how to power-use GIMP throughout a production pipeline. Topics include understanding the GIMP interface and how to work with it, how to use all of GIMP’s tools to create high-quality images, GIMP’s default filters and plug-ins, advanced techniques for customization with Python scripting, animation, and much more.

GIMP Bible

Farming Simulator Modding For Dummies

Farming Simulator Modding For Dummies

Farming Simulator is a video game produced by GIANTS Software that lets you run your own farm. More interestingly, the game is completely mod-able. Farming Simulator Modding For Dummies is a concise guide takes you through the steps of creating your own mods. You’ll get up and running on everything you need to master 3D modeling and simulation — and have fun while doing it! Inside, you’ll find out how to create and edit maps, start using the material panel, customize your mods by adding texture, use the correct file-naming conventions, test your mod in single and multiplayer modes, get a grip on using Vehicle XML, and so much more.

There’s no denying that Farming Simulator players love modding—and now there’s a trusted, friendly resource to help you take your modding skills to the next level and get even more out of your game. Written in plain English and packed with tons of step-by-step explanations, Farming Simulator Modding For Dummies is a great way to learn the ropes of 3D modeling with the tools available to you in the game. In no time, you’ll be wowing your fellow gamesters — and yourself — with custom, kick-butt mods. So what are you waiting for?

Farming Simulator Modding For Dummies