Layer - Visible but inactive

Support Basics & Interface
1

Hello everyone,

I seem to remember a bit of functionality in one of the student/demo packages (Maya maybe). Where you could have a layer be visible, but not be able to select anything on it. So, you could work on layer 2, while referencing geometry on layer 1 without having wory about inadvertently change something on layer 1.

Is it possible to do this in Blender?

Thanks for your time!

2

No, it’s not possible yet in blender.

However I can imagine how this kind of “feature” will generate countless messages on Blender General saying: “Cannot select my objects anymore. Anybody can help me ?” :slight_smile:

3

Hi rtaulbee.

This is possible using multiple scenes (and not layers.) Here is the workflow:

  1. Place the reference object on second scene.
  2. Link second scene in the first scene. (in F10 buttons window)
  3. Voila. Now the object in the second scene is displayed in the first scene as a ghost. i.e., you cannot do anything to it. just watch it.

Click here to see a demo (made using Wink).

4

iluvblender (me2)

Thanks…and I must say that I have never noticed the scene selector, or if I did, didn’t pay any attention to it. It’s just amazing what you can learn on these forums…and how quickly.

Thanks so much for your help!!!

5

Hi.

I am glad to be of help. Blender is full of hidden surprises. You just have to look-around and play with stuff.

Cheers :smiley: