Blender 4.2 and newer (Extensions System)

1. Download the Imperfekt extension ZIP file
2. Open Blender and go to Edit > Preferences
3. Select the Extensions tab (not Add-ons)
4. Click the "Install..." button
5. Navigate to and select the downloaded Imperfekt ZIP file
6. Click "Install Extension"

The extension will be installed and automatically activated, ready to use immediately from the N-panel.

Note: The new Extensions system in Blender 4.2+ streamlines the installation process and provides improved update capabilities compared to the legacy add-on system.

Surface Imperfection Library

Imperfekt includes a comprehensive library of 65+ procedural surface imperfections organized in the following categories:

• Dust: Fine layers of dust and particles
• Edge Wear: Worn edges and corners typical of used objects
• Grunge: Dirt, grime, and general wear and tear
• Scratches: Various scratch patterns and marks
• Smudges: Fingermarks, smears, and oily residues
• Spatters: Splashes, drips, and spray patterns
• Fingerprints: Realistic human fingerprint patterns
• Various: Additional specialized imperfections

Fingerprint Generator

The specialized fingerprint generator creates highly realistic human fingerprint patterns that can be rendered and used in your materials. Choose from multiple resolution options (1K, 2K, 4K, or 8K) to suit your project needs.

Search Functionality

Quickly find specific imperfections by name using the search feature.

UV Unwrapping

It is highly recommended to have proper UV unwrapped models when using Imperfekt. Many of the surface imperfections utilize image textures internally, which rely on proper UV coordinates for accurate placement and scaling. Without proper UVs, imperfections may appear distorted or improperly scaled.

Scaling Imperfections

Always check the scale of the applied surface imperfection as it may need adjustment depending on your model's dimensions:

• Locate the Scale parameter in either the Mapping node or within the imperfection node group
• A scale value of 1.0 is the default but may not be suitable for all models
• Smaller models may require a higher scale value (e.g., 2.0-10)
• Larger models may require a lower scale value (e.g., 0.1-0.5)

This adjustment ensures that the imperfection details appear at the appropriate size relative to your model.

Node Connections

After applying an imperfection, you need to manually adjust connections in the Shader Editor:

1. Open the Shader Editor
2. Locate the newly added imperfection node group
3. Check the connections between the imperfection node and your base material
4. Adjust the factor/strength of the mixing node to control the imperfection intensity
5. You can also add additional nodes (like ColorRamp) to further customize the effect

Using the Fingerprint Generator

The Fingerprint Generator requires a few manual steps:

1. Select the desired resolution from the dropdown menu
2. Click "Generate Fingerprint" to create the fingerprint scene
3. Important: You must manually render the fingerprint image using F12 or the render button
4. Save the rendered image to your computer
5. Manually add the saved fingerprint image to your material as an image texture
6. Connect the image texture to your material setup as needed

This process allows you to create custom fingerprint patterns to use in your projects.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Blender Community. Without their invaluable tutorials, resources, and shared knowledge, this addon would not have been possible. The open and collaborative spirit of the Blender ecosystem continues to inspire us and drives the development of tools like Imperfekt.

Special thanks to all the artists who have shared their workflows, techniques, and feedback, helping us refine and improve this addon.

If you encounter any issues or have questions about using Imperfekt, please contact me.

Imperfekt: Because perfection is boring.