How to Use a Lattice to Deform a Mesh in Blender

Using a lattice in Blender allows you to non-destructively deform complex 3D meshes using a simplified grid of control points. This technique is ideal for character animation, organic shaping, and quick mesh adjustments without modifying individual vertices directly. By adding a lattice object, scaling it around your target mesh, and linking them via a Lattice Modifier, you can easily alter the shape of your 3D model in real time.

Step 1: Create and Position the Lattice

  1. Press Shift + A in the 3D Viewport to open the Add menu.
  2. Navigate to Lattice and click to create a new lattice object.
  3. Select the lattice and press S to scale it, G to move it, and R to rotate it until it completely encloses the target mesh you want to deform.

Note: Always transform the lattice in Object Mode during this initial setup phase to match the target mesh's bounding box.

Step 2: Adjust the Lattice Resolution

  1. With the lattice selected, open the Object Data Properties tab (represented by a green grid icon in the Properties panel).
  2. Find the Lattice section and adjust the Resolution values:
    • U: Controls horizontal subdivision.
    • V: Controls vertical subdivision.
    • W: Controls depth subdivision.
  3. Increase these numbers depending on how much control you need over the deformation. A lower resolution (e.g., 3x3x3) provides smoother, broader deformations, while a higher resolution allows for more localized adjustments.

Step 3: Bind the Mesh to the Lattice

  1. Select your target 3D mesh (not the lattice).
  2. Go to the Modifier Properties tab (the wrench icon) in the Properties panel.
  3. Click Add Modifier and select Lattice under the Deform column.
  4. In the Lattice Modifier settings, click the Object field and select the lattice object you created in Step 1.

Step 4: Deform the Mesh

  1. Select the lattice object.
  2. Press Tab to switch into Edit Mode.
  3. Select any of the lattice control points.
  4. Use the standard transform tools (G to move, S to scale, R to rotate) to distort the lattice. The target mesh will bend, stretch, and deform according to the movement of the lattice points.

Additional Techniques

  • Selective Deformation: To apply the lattice effect to only a specific part of your mesh, assign a Vertex Group to that area in the mesh data properties, then select that group inside the Lattice Modifier's Vertex Group field.
  • Applying the Deformation: If you want the changes to become permanent, select the target mesh, go to the Lattice Modifier, click the dropdown arrow, and select Apply. You can then delete the lattice object.