The Offset Edge Loop Tool lets you insert two lines of parallel edges on either side of the edge(s) you select. The parallel edge lines traverse the extent of the edge selection. Offset Edge Loop is useful when you want to add localized detail to a polygonal mesh on either side of a single edge or line of edges.
When editing a polygonal mesh, there is always the risk that splitting a polygon to add detail to the mesh will result in changing the integrity of the polygon topology from the usual ideal four-sided topology (quads) to triangles or some type of multisided polygon topology.
The Offset Edge Loop Tool lets you insert edges on either side of selected edges to add detail to a polygon mesh while ensuring that the integrity of the four-sided polygon topology is maintained. When an edge or multiple edges get offset on a mesh comprised of four-sided polygons (quads), the Offset Edge Loop Tool creates two new edges on either side of the selected edge and subdivides the affected faces to ensure that the four-sided polygon topology is maintained.
To change the Offset Edge Loop Tool so it works as an action
- From the Modeling menu set, select Mesh Tools > Offset Edge Loop >
. - From the Offset Edge Loop Tool options window, choose the Edit menu, select As Action, and then Close.
The additional options will be available the next time you select this feature.
You can turn the Auto Complete and Delete Edge options on or off while the tool is active using a marking menu. This assists your workflow by letting you continue your work without having to re-open the tool options window.
To change the tool options when the Offset Edge Loop Tool is active
- Press Ctrl + Shift + right-click anywhere within the scene view away from the surface.
The Offset Edge Loop Tool options (Auto Complete and Delete Edge) appear on a marking menu.
- Depending on your desired workflow, you can select either Auto Complete and/or Delete Edge from the marking menu to turn these options on or off.
You can continue to use the Offset Edge Loop Tool and the options you selected will be used.