Foundry Unveils Mari 7.1 with Updated 2D and 3D Texturing Features

Foundry has announced a major update to its Mari texturing software, introducing new tools and workflows designed to enhance efficiency for both 2D and 3D artists. The Mari 7.1 release brings significant upgrades, including a 2D Painting Mode, an expanded Smart Mask system, a versatile Switch Node, and Paint Node Creation Presets, offering a more streamlined and intuitive texturing experience.

Seamless 2D Painting Mode

The 7.1 update introduces a 2D Painting Mode that allows users to directly edit images within Mari, leveraging tools familiar to its community, such as the Paint Buffer, Node Graph, and Layer Stack. With a new “2D” pane added alongside the Orthographic view, artists can easily switch between 2D and 3D perspectives.

The update also includes the Image Manager, enabling users to import, modify, and save images, along with the .mrimg file format for saving and loading 2D object node graphs. The addition of the Image Write Node ensures real-time synchronization between 2D and 3D workflows by rebaking textures automatically.

Smarter Masks for Precise Effects

Mari’s revamped Smart Mask system builds on its Custom Procedurals, offering a library of over 50 pre-built masks tailored for effects like dust, scratches, and drips. These procedural tools remain fully modular and customizable, giving artists flexibility to adapt them to their unique projects.

Enhanced Nodegraph Functionality

Nodegraph users gain a new Switch Node, making it simpler to toggle between texture variations, such as “clean” and “dirty” looks, within a single shader. This addition streamlines the process of iterating on multiple designs without disrupting workflows.

Faster Setup with Paint Node Creation Presets

The update also introduces Paint Node Creation Presets, which speed up initial project setup. A new Color Presets shelf allows users to store and access custom swatches, reducing repetitive tasks and boosting efficiency.

Foundry’s Mari 7.1 update signals a step forward in empowering artists with flexible, intuitive tools for texturing. These enhancements are expected to benefit professionals in industries ranging from VFX and animation to gaming and beyond.