Pen Tool For Houdini
Tool for creating Bezier curves with familiar UX in Houdini.
Download:
Orbolt: https://www.orbolt.com/asset/igel::pen_tool::1.0
Github: https://github.com/igor-elovikov/hipie (part of a package, Python 3 builds only)
This is a tool I've created while learning Python States and HOM in general in Houdini. States API and new custom handles support in Houdini are so powerful it basically has no limits for interactive tools creation.
For more detailed information please refer to the HDA help page.
From UX perspective it's just mimicking the pen tool from other DCCs
It's a single SOP with custom state that takes two inputs for shape library and collider and outputs Bezier and polyline primitives
I've tried to create a similar workflow from other vector drawings apps.
You're not limited by just one shape and as it's based on builtin Houdini grid snapping you can have a more or less precise control.
It also gives you standard stuff like multi-selecting and editing, transforming curves by box handles, duplicating curves etc.
The tool supports arbitrary attributes on control points with pscale and roll enabled by default.
With these you can interactively control the input for other SOPs (like Sweep SOP on image above)
Out of the box the tool is ready for many other builtin SOPs. You can use when you need an artistic input and you don't mind to be a little bit "destructive"
You can even use at for animation and have a interactive motion paths.
Above is just a simple KineFX full body IK setup with attaching a joint to curve.
Basically there are countless ways to use it inside Houdini.
Personally I've found it extremely helpful for VFXs meshes and some quick organic sketches.