When a model is topologically symmetrical but posed in an asymmetrical manner, you can still sculpt or paint with symmetry by defining the topological axis, then setting the tool Mirror property to Tangent. Defining the topological axis determines the axis the tool will mirror across (unless it has been previously set).
A model is topologically symmetrical when it has an equal number of faces on each half and the relationship of the border edges on the faces of the mesh on one half match the opposite half.
Mudbox topological symmetry requires that all faces belong to either one side of the mesh or the other. The object must have an edge that runs down the center line of the mesh, with no faces that straddle that center line. (In most cases, a topologically symmetrical model is created by building half the model, then duplicating it to produce the other half, which produces a continuous center line edge.)
It is easier to select faces when the mesh is displayed at the lowest subdivision level.
You only need to define the topological axis once. The information is stored with the model and carried over to all subdivision levels.
If Mudbox cannot determine topological symmetry based on your selection, an error message appears on the status line. Ensure you are selecting faces at the lowest subdivision level, then try again. If Mudbox continues to indicate a lack of symmetry, the model is likely not topologically symmetrical.
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