Quick Tutorials

by Dinis Pereira in Addons


Overview

The Quick Tutorials add-on lets you search for YouTube tutorials directly from Blender. With seamless integration into Blender's sidebar, you can quickly find relevant tutorials, save your favorites, and even play the first recommended videoā€”all without interrupting your workflow.


Key Features

  1. YouTube Tutorial Search

    • Perform tutorial searches directly from Blender.
    • Optionally append "Blender tutorial" to focus on Blender-specific content.
    • Filter results by video duration (Short, Medium, or Long).
  2. Favorites Management

    • Save tutorial searches for future reference.
    • Remove outdated favorites easily.
    • Play saved favorites with one click.
  3. Recommended Video Playback

    • Play the first video from search results instantly.
    • Access full search results if needed.
  4. Customizable Options

    • Toggle between general and Blender-specific searches.
    • Set duration filters to match your learning needs.

Why Choose This Add-on?

  • Convenience: Quickly access tutorials from Blenderā€™s interface.
  • Productivity: Save time by managing your favorite searches within Blender.
  • Ease of Use: A clean and intuitive UI integrated into Blender's sidebar.

How to Install

  1. Download the ZIP File:

    • Ensure you have the .zip file containing the add-on.
  2. Install via Blender:

    • Open Blender and go to Edit > Preferences > Add-ons.
    • Click Install and select the downloaded .zip file.
    • Enable the add-on by ticking the checkbox next to Quick Tutorials.
  3. Save Preferences:

    • Save your preferences to keep the add-on active for future sessions.

How to Use

Search Tutorials

  1. Go to 3D View > Sidebar > Quick Tutorials (press N to toggle the Sidebar if hidden).
  2. Enter your topic in the Search Query field.
  3. Configure optional settings:
    • Check Include Blender Tutorial to append "Blender tutorial" to your search.
    • Check Recommend Video to play the first video automatically.
    • Choose a video duration filter (Short, Medium, Long, or Any).
  4. Click Search Tutorials to open the results in your default web browser.

Manage Favorites

  • Add a Favorite:
    • Enter a query in the Search Query field and click Add to Favorites.
    • The query will be saved for quick future searches.
  • Remove a Favorite:
    • Select a favorite from the dropdown menu and click Remove Favorite.
  • Play a Favorite:
    • Choose a favorite and click Play Favorite to open the associated tutorial or recommended video.

Technical Requirements

  • Blender Version: Compatible with Blender 3.0 and above.
  • Internet Connection: Required for searching and playing tutorials.
  • Platforms: Works on all operating systems supported by Blender.

Troubleshooting

  • Favorites Not Saving: Ensure Blender has write access to its user resource directory.
  • Search Errors: Check your internet connection or verify that YouTube is accessible from your device.
  • UI Not Appearing: Restart Blender or ensure the add-on is enabled in Preferences.

Support

For assistance, contact the developer or visit the Blender community forums. Feedback and feature suggestions are always welcome!


Future Updates

  • Improved video search and playback via YouTube API.
  • Advanced filtering options for more precise searches.
  • Export/import functionality for sharing favorite tutorial lists.

Streamline your learning process and stay focused on your projects with the Quick Tutorials Blender add-on. Download the ZIP now and take your 3D skills to the next level!