Spirograph Curves Addon Instructions

1. Install the Addon

• Open Blender.
• Go to Edit > Preferences.
• In the Add-ons tab, click on Install (top-right corner).
• Navigate to the location of the curves.zip file (or folder), select it, and click Install Add-on.
• Once installed, make sure to enable the addon by checking the checkbox next to its name in the list.

2. Access the Addon

• After enabling the addon, you can find the Curve Generator panel on the right-hand sidebar in the 3D Viewport:
  • Press N (if the sidebar isn’t visible).
  • Navigate to the "Curve Gen" tab.

3. Starting the Addon

• Image Previews: You'll see a section that displays image thumbnails representing different spirograph configurations.
  • Use the ◀ and ▶ buttons to scroll through the available images.
  • Each image corresponds to specific preset values for the spirograph curve.
  • Click the Use button under an image to apply its values to the curve parameters.

4. Customizing the Curve

The addon provides various parameters to control the shape and appearance of the generated curve. You can adjust these sliders to customize your curve:

• k Value: Controls the shape of the curve based on its mathematical equation.
• l Value: Another factor that influences the overall form of the curve.
• t Range: Controls how far the curve extends.
• Scale: Changes the overall size of the curve.
• Bevel Depth: Adjusts the thickness of the curve.
• Extrude: Adds depth (extrusion) along the Z-axis for the curve, turning it into a 3D object.
• Resolution: Controls the number of vertices, affecting how smooth the curve appears.

5. Material Selection

• Choose a material for the curve from the dropdown menu. It lists all materials available in the Blender scene.

6. Buttons:

• Create Copy of Curve: Generates a duplicate of the current curve with all its parameters, allowing you to experiment with different settings while keeping the original intact.
• Reset Curve: Resets all parameters (k, l, t range, etc.) back to their default values.

7. Tips for Use

• Experiment with the k and l values to create various intricate spirograph designs.
• Combine the curves with materials and lighting to create stunning visuals for renders.
• Use the extrude option to give depth and turn the curve into a 3D object for more complex designs.

That's it! This addon allows you to generate intricate and unique spirograph-style curves for artistic designs, animations, or experiments with parametric modeling. Enjoy exploring its potential!