Convert Mesh Edge Loop to Curve in Blender

Converting a mesh edge loop to a curve in Blender allows you to easily generate paths for animations, create bevelled pipes, or build complex shapes along existing geometry. This process involves selecting your desired edge loop in Edit Mode, separating it into its own mesh object, and using Blender’s native conversion tools to transform it into a Bezier or Poly curve.

Step-by-Step Guide to Converting Edge Loops to Curves

Step 1: Select the Edge Loop

  1. Select your 3D mesh and press Tab to enter Edit Mode.
  2. Switch to Edge Select mode by pressing 2 on your top number row.
  3. Hold Alt and Left-Click on an edge to select the entire continuous edge loop. (Hold Shift + Alt to select multiple loops).

Step 2: Duplicate and Separate the Edges

  1. With the edge loop selected, press Shift + D to duplicate the edges.
  2. Press Right-Click or Esc immediately to keep the duplicate in the exact same position.
  3. Press P to open the Separate menu and choose Selection.
  4. Press Tab to exit Edit Mode back into Object Mode.

Step 3: Convert the Separated Mesh to a Curve

  1. In Object Mode, select the newly created mesh object in the Outliner or 3D Viewport.
  2. Right-click in the Viewport and hover over Convert To, then select Curve. (Alternatively, click Object > Convert > Curve in the top menu bar).

The edge loop is now a curve object.

Adding Thickness to the Converted Curve

Once converted, you can easily turn the curve into a 3D wire, cable, or tube:

  1. Select the new curve object.
  2. Open the Object Data Properties tab (green curve icon) in the right-hand panel.
  3. Scroll down and expand the Geometry section.
  4. Under the Bevel sub-section, increase the Depth value to add 3D thickness around the path.