So I started with a simple shape (kind of like a toaster shape I guess) with rounded edges, but I want to cut in a panel shape like the picture (I have hidden to bottom half of the object). I am using a subdiv modifier and using holding edges to get nice looking hard edges, but I run into issues with shading on the rounded edges when adding a required edge loop (and if I use creases, it causes a weird artifact on the edge if I don’t let it crease the whole edge loop around the entire model.
Where I want to harden the edges without affecting the already smooth geometry.
Top two pictures show when I add an edge loop and adds a slight crease in the shading (I played with the smoothness factor after adding it with Ctrl+R, but it distorts the vertices on the bottom where I want it to make a hard edge)
The bottom too images shows a technique I have seen some people use, but as the angled edge (indicated by the arrow) is crossing on the rounded part of the model, it causes this shading issue.
Sorry if this is an necessary amount of information, I just want to illustrate my problem as clearly as possible to reduce unnecessary back and forth communication.
You can add the extra loops to tighten up the lower portion, but then you need to space them out more evenly as they radiate out from those locations. Something like the example below. I made the edits to just the left side. Is that what you were trying to achieve?
Duplicate the object, set the smoothing on the original up a notch or two. The original is then used as a guide for the duplicate which you’ll be editing. Next edit the duplicate with face snapping turned on to add what’s needed to have the notch. The face snapping will make the new geometry for the tighter corner still conform to the desired curvature from the original form.
Sorry it’s taken me so long to get back, been really busy the last month.
This helps me problem mostly, but I forgot to ask about another issue (more or less related to the same thing)
I was modelling the hand grip of a gun which has hard edges on a slightly curved surface, but when i try something like your method Macser, i get this outward pinch on the corner like in this screenshot.
