How to Add a Bezier Curve in Blender

Adding a Bezier curve primitive in Blender is a fundamental skill for 3D modeling, motion graphics, and creating smooth paths. This guide covers the step-by-step process to insert a Bezier curve into your 3D Viewport using keyboard shortcuts and menu options, along with basic techniques for switching modes and editing control points.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Bezier Curve

Method 1: Using the Keyboard Shortcut (Fastest)

  1. Open Blender and ensure you are in the 3D Viewport.
  2. Press Shift + A to open the Add Menu.
  3. Hover over Curve.
  4. Click Bezier.

Method 2: Using the Top Menu

  1. Look at the top-left corner of the 3D Viewport.
  2. Click the Add dropdown menu.
  3. Hover over Curve and select Bezier.

The Bezier curve primitive will appear at the location of your 3D Cursor.

Basic Controls for Editing a Bezier Curve

Once the curve is added, you can modify its shape using the following steps:

  1. Enter Edit Mode: Select the curve and press Tab (or change the mode in the top-left dropdown from Object Mode to Edit Mode).
  2. Select Control Points: Right-click or left-click (depending on your keymap) on the handles or center vertices of the curve.
  3. Move, Rotate, and Scale:
    • Press G to move a selected control point or handle.
    • Press R to rotate the handle vectors.
    • Press S to scale the distance between handle ends.
  4. Extrude New Points: Select an end control point and press E to extrude a new section of the curve.
  5. Adjust Curve Type: Press V with a handle selected to change its handle type (e.g., Automatic, Vector, Aligned, or Free).