XL Digital
made by
Xavier (Jack)
Crowdfunding

Wiggle Bones

A Three.js library that makes rigged objects
move softly and feel alive.

0 25 50 75 100
6,605pledged of
€5,000 goal
193backers
133% complete
0days to go
All or nothing. This project will only be funded if it reaches its goal by Fri 15 December.

Hey there!

My name is Xavier (Jack) and I create 3D websites. I have had the pleasure of working on projects for brands such as HBO, Adidas, Spotify, Vogue, Prada, Bottega Veneta, and many more.

One of my favorite real-time techniques for parametric animations is called Wiggle Bones. It allows rigged objects to move smoothly and feel alive by simply manipulating the root bone.

Here are some experiments I made using Wiggle Bones:

By popular demand, I am planning to release my Three.js implementation of Wiggle Bones to the public. To achieve this, I am starting a crowdfunding campaign to obtain resources for completing the library, creating documentation, and producing a video tutorial.

Once completed, the library will be free and published on npm. However, by supporting this project, you can gain early access.

Graphic for video players.

Using Wiggle Bones requires rigging your models, which may seem intimidating.

To address this, I will create an exclusive video tutorial for supporters of this crowdfunding campaign. In the tutorial, I will guide you through the entire process of rigging multiple objects in Blender, importing them into Three.js, and incorporating the Wiggle Bones library.

With the lovely support from

Exclusive Rewards
for backers of this campaign

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Early Access

Get early access to the library and support indie development of creative tools.

10
Pledge €10
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Video Tutorial

Get early access to the library + video tutorial including rigging in Blender.

25
Pledge €25
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Sponsor

Access for your team + show your company’s logo in the library’s homepage*.

500+
Pledge €500+

Frequent Questions

What happens when we reach the goal of €5,000?

If we reach the goal of €5,000 before the deadline, the campaign will be considered a success. I will then proceed with making the library ready for production projects. Backers will be given access to beta versions, and eventually, the library will be published on npm for public use.
Additionally, I will create a small site for the project with documentation.
As a special reward, I will also create a video tutorial on how to rig objects in Blender specifically for the Wiggle Bones library, which will be accessible only to backers who choose this reward option.

What happens if we don't reach the goal before the deadline?

If we don't reach the goal before the deadline (hopefully, this will not happen), the library will not be published, and the tutorial will not be created. In this case, every backer will receive a refund of their pledge, excluding transaction fees (which should be less than 5%).

When can I expect my rewards?

Beginning of 2024.

Why do you need the money?

Developing high-quality software and content takes time. By raising funds, I can allocate sufficient time to this project by reducing client work.
This campaign is also an experiment in finding alternative ways to sustain the creation of creative software. If you support independent creators, this is a great opportunity to contribute!

Are there any potential risks with this campaign? Will you be able to make this happen?

I have been using this library for over a year in my experiments, and it has been tested against various use cases. Therefore, the risk of not delivering is minimal.
The goal of this campaign is to improve the code, optimize it, ensure it works in edge cases, create documentation, and develop a video tutorial. All these tasks are easily achievable.

Really cool, but where the hell am I going to use this?

You can use this library on any platform that supports Three.js. For example, you can utilize it for 3D websites, immersive experiences, games, VR/AR applications, and experiments.

I am a newbie. Will I be able to use the library?

Some JavaScript knowledge is recommended, and familiarity with Three.js is useful but not necessary.
If you are unfamiliar with rigging a 3D model, I recommend purchasing the video tutorial in this campaign. I will provide links to third party tutorials specifically for beginners as well.
Alternatively, if you are a developer, you can collaborate with a 3D designer.

Is this Inverse Kinematics? Physics Joints?

No, this is not Inverse Kinematics. It is more like Forward Kinematics combined with a smoothing function.
It also doesn't involve joints or a full physics engine, which can be complex to set up and negatively impact performance.
This technique is much simpler and utilizes the hierarchy of the skeleton.

Will this project be Open Source?

I do not plan to make this project Open Source, but it will be freely distributed on npm.

Can you tell us more about sponsors?

Sponsoring is the best way to support this project if you are a studio or an agency. Sponsors will receive access to the video tutorial for up to 20 team members.
Additionally, you will have the option to have your company's logo and a link to your website added to the project's homepage. This is a great opportunity to support independent software and gain exposure among developers.

Can I get in touch with you?

Absolutely! You can reach me via email at xavier@xl.digital.

Let's Make it Happen!

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Credits

Website by

Xavier (Jack) – XL Digital

Used 3D models:

Balloon Dog by Octaclee (CC BY 4.0 DEED)

Flower by milaha (CC BY 4.0 DEED)