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How to animate 3D models with Three.js / React Three Fiber

Overview

Animating 3D models in the browser can seem complex, but with the power of Three.js and React Three Fiber (R3F), it becomes much easier. In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through animating a 3D character using a model from the Unity Asset Store and free animations from Mixamo.

Why Learn 3D Animation in React?

Many web applications now incorporate 3D elements, from e-commerce product viewers to interactive experiences. Animating 3D models is a key skill that allows for more dynamic and engaging applications. This tutorial is useful for:

• Developers who want to bring 3D models to life in their web apps.

• Anyone interested in using Mixamo animations with React Three Fiber.

• Those looking to understand the basics of 3D character animation without diving deep into Blender.

Insights and Skills

By following this tutorial, you will learn:

• How to set up a React project with Vite and install the necessary dependencies.

• How to find and use 3D models from the Unity Asset Store.

• Where to get free animations from Mixamo.

• How to display and configure 3D models in a React app using React Three Fiber.

• How to animate models and switch between different animations.

• How to build a simple UI to control animations.

Tech Stack

• React Three Fiber

• Three.js

• Drei

• Mixamo

• Mantine

Code link

• Source code 🔗

• Final result 🔗

Resources

• React Three Fiber documentation

• R3F Drei

• Unity Asset Store

• Sketchfab

• Create your React App in a minute with Vite

#threejs #r3f

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