1. Select the Base Template
Start a new project and navigate to the Accessories category, then select Belts. Choose a template based on where you want it to sit—at the high waist (perfect for dresses) or at the hips (ideal for trousers).
2. Define the Material and Texture
The texture determines the belt’s quality.
Leather/Suede: Use a leather texture and adjust the Tiling so the grain is visible but fine.
Metal/Chain: If you are making a chain belt, use a metallic material with high Reflectivity to ensure it glitters during the runway walk.
Fabric: For a casual “tie-belt,” use a cotton or silk texture with low gloss.
3. Sculpt the Buckle
The buckle is the focal point of the belt.
Use the Shape Tool to add a square, circle, or custom logo in the center.
Apply a “Metal” material to this specific layer.
Pro Tip: Add a small “Glare” (bright white highlight) on the edges of the buckle to give it a 3D, polished effect.
4. Create Depth with Shading
To prevent the belt from looking like it’s “painted” onto the clothes, you must add shadows:
Inner Shadow: Add a very thin, dark line at the bottom edge of the belt. This simulates the shadow the belt casts on the clothing beneath it.
Creases: If it’s a leather belt, add tiny, faint vertical lines near the buckle to simulate natural wear and “pull” on the material.
5. Add Fine Details (Stitching & Holes)
Small details make your design look “high-end.”
Stitching: Use a dotted line tool to create a contrast stitch (e.g., white thread on brown leather) along the top and bottom edges.
Eyelets: Add small, dark circles where the belt notches would be. Adding a tiny metallic ring around these circles makes them look like real metal eyelets.
6. Test for Clipping
Because belts sit between two layers of clothing, use the 3D Preview to ensure the belt doesn’t disappear into the model’s waist or glitch through high-waisted skirts. Adjust the “Z-index” or thickness if necessary to ensure it sits on top of the fabric.
7. Name and Publish
Give your accessory a stylish name (e.g., “Vintage O-Ring Leather Belt” or “Minimalist Gold Chain”), set your price, and click Publish to see it in the Pocket Styler Studio shop!
