Model Sheet and Turnaround
Orthographic views of a character or prop
Also known as: Character turnaround · Model sheet · Orthographic views · Character sheet · Front side back view · Reference sheet
Definition
A model sheet, or turnaround, shows a character, creature or prop from several standard views, typically front, side, back and three-quarter, drawn to the same scale and proportions. It is the reference that 3D modelers, riggers and animators work from, so it has to be consistent, clear and complete, with a neutral pose such as a T-pose or A-pose. It often includes callouts for costume details, materials, colors and accessories.
In production
Draw the views aligned on shared guide lines so that features match across them, and keep the pose neutral so modeling and rigging are easier. Add color variants, expressions, and notes on materials and details. Modelers import it into Blender or Maya as image planes, so use clean, high-resolution images. Check the design against its silhouette from each view, since a model sheet exposes proportion problems.
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See also
Silhouette
The readable outline of a shape
Forgettable Character Design
The character does not read or stand out
Bind Pose
The neutral pose a mesh is skinned in
Blockout
Rough mass + scale placeholder
Concept Art
Visual design before 3D production
Game-Ready Asset
Asset prepared to run in a real-time engine
Anatomy Landmarks for 3D Artists
Bony points and muscle groups that guide a sculpt
Character Pipeline (Sculpt to Engine)
The stages a game character goes through