To use NURBS in Maya you can do one of the following:

• Construct 3D models using NURBS primitives.

  Primitives are simple 3D objects created in the shape of common geometric forms such as cubes, spheres, cones, and so on. Primitives can be a great starting point for many 3D shapes. You can modify the attributes of NURBS primitives to modify their shape. You can also modify NURBS primitives by trimming away portions of their forms, beveling their edges, or by sculpting them into different shapes using the Maya Artisan sculpting tools.

• Construct NURBS curves that define the basic outline of the 3D form you wish to construct and then use the curves as a basis for constructing your NURBS surfaces.

  Maya provides several options for constructing and modifying NURBS curves and surfaces:

  • You can draw curves by placing control vertices, or edit points. The curve drawing tools are found in the Create menu.
  • The features for editing NURBS curves are used by first selecting the Surfaces menu set, and then selecting the desired curve editing feature from the Edit Curves menu.
  • The features for creating NURBS surfaces are used by first selecting the Surfaces menu set, and then selecting the desired surface creation feature from the Surfaces menu set.
  • The features for modifying NURBS surfaces are used by first selecting the Surfaces menu set, and then selecting the desired surface editing feature from the Edit NURBS menu set.