Binding & Weighting

Summary

Binding and Weighting allow for natural deformation of vector artwork by connecting individual vertices or Bezier handles to multiple bones. Binding links the bones to a path, while weighting determines how much influence each bone has over specific points, enabling smooth curves and complex movements.

Step by Step

1. 01:12
   Binding Bones

   Select the path layer in the hierarchy (or press Enter on a shape). Click the + button next to "Bind Bones," hold Shift to select multiple bones, and press Enter to confirm.
2. 01:50
   Entering Edit Vertices Mode

   With the path selected, enter vertex editing mode by clicking the button or pressing Enter.
3. 02:04
   Manual Weighting

   Select a vertex to see bone influence percentages. Adjust the numerical values (totaling 100%) to distribute control between different bones.
4. 03:40
   Weighting Handles

   Note that Bezier handles can also be weighted individually, which is crucial for maintaining smooth, controlled curves during deformation.
5. 05:15
   Using the Weight Tool

   Activate the Weight tool (shortcut Shift + B) to see "Weight Pies" on each vertex. Select a bone and drag up or down on the stage to visually adjust influence.
6. 06:41
   Observing Path Movement

   Understand that binding moves the _path_ layer. If your shape has a gradient, the gradient remains static relative to the shape layer while the path deforms within it.

Notes About Current Rive

• Speed Tip: The first bone selected during the binding process receives 100% initial weight for all vertices. Plan your selection order to minimize manual weighting later.
• Vector Focus: This lesson focuses strictly on vector paths; the process for raster (image) meshes is slightly different and covered in a separate lesson.
• Physics Simulation: Proper weighting is the key to making rigid vector shapes look like flexible materials (e.g., a waving flag or a bending arm).