How to Rip and Fill Edges in Blender

Ripping and filling edges in Blender are fundamental mesh editing techniques used to separate geometry and close open gaps in 3D models. This guide covers how to use the Rip tool to disconnect edges or vertices, the Fill command to generate new faces, and the combined Rip Fill feature to perform both operations simultaneously for efficient topology adjustments.

How to Rip an Edge

The Rip tool splits selected geometry away from adjacent faces without deleting any vertices.

1. Enter Edit Mode: Select your 3D model and press Tab.
2. Select Geometry: Switch to Vertex Select (1) or Edge Select (2) mode and select the edge or vertex you want to disconnect.
3. Position Your Cursor: Move your mouse cursor toward the direction you want the separated geometry to pull away. Blender uses your cursor position relative to the selection to determine the rip direction.
4. Rip the Mesh: Press V.
5. Confirm Position: Drag the separated mesh to your desired position, then left-click to confirm.

How to Fill an Edge or Gap

The Fill command creates new edges or faces between unlinked, selected geometry.

1. Select Geometry: In Edit Mode, hold Shift and select the vertices or edges you want to connect.
2. Create the Face or Edge: Press F. Blender will generate a new edge if two vertices are selected, or a face if three or more vertices/edges are selected.

How to Use the Shortcut: Rip Fill

Blender has a built-in command called Rip Fill that automatically rips the selected edge and creates a new face in the resulting gap in a single action.

1. Select the edge or vertex you wish to split.
2. Press Alt + V.
3. Move your mouse away from the selection. A new face will automatically generate between the original mesh and the ripped section.
4. Left-click to confirm the edit.