Project Overview
This commission presented a high-precision vectoring challenge: recreating an intricate, organic red-and-gray splash pattern across the Airbus H145 (HB-XNL) airframe based on just a few reference photographs. The entire pattern was hand-traced from scratch to achieve seamless alignment, combined with fine-tuned PBR roughness maps to give subtle grey accent details a distinct specular pop against the dark fuselage.
Technical Details
- Hand-Traced Vector Pattern Work: Meticulously hand-drawn vector graphics derived from real-world reference photos, ensuring sharp resolution without distortion along compound fuselage curves.
- Variable PBR Roughness Maps: Custom roughness and metallic layers engineered so subtle gray pattern details catch light at slightly different angles, adding dramatic depth to the dark scheme.
- High-Fidelity 4K Texturing: Crisp execution of Swiss registration marks (
HB-XNL), tail fin flag detail, and subtle manufacturer logos.
Design & Simulator Showcase
3D Texture Mapping & Pattern Alignment
Initial pass in Substance 3D Painter showing the placement of the primary red brushstroke pattern across the cabin door.
Extreme close-up of the vector tracing pass, demonstrating the precision outlining required for the multi-toned splash elements.
Side profile showing the completed multi-layered pattern blending red and variable-roughness gray accents.
Full side view highlighting the sweeping flow of the graphics from the nose, along the cabin, and down the tailboom.
Perspective view showing seamless pattern continuity across the lower fuselage and nose fairing.
In-Simulator Showcase
On location in MSFS: HB-XNL resting on an Alpine helipad, highlighting the reflection differences between the gloss finish and subtle gray pattern details.
Ground shot showcasing the Swiss flag tail livery and crisp registration details against snowy mountain scenery.
In-flight action shot over the Alps, demonstrating how the variable roughness map reacts dynamically to sunlight.