Ptarmigan Plugin

by Clark Cheng

Rhino Grasshopper Houdini ZBrush VSCode

Ptarmigan is a plugin designed as a collection of custom scripts that speed up workflow and make repetitive or mundane processes much easier. It integrates across multiple creative platforms such as Rhino, Grasshopper, Houdini, and ZBrush, each tailored for different aspects of the design and modeling pipeline.

In Rhino and Grasshopper, Ptarmigan adds custom commands and components that simplify complex modeling operations. In Houdini, it introduces node-based utilities for faster scene setup and mesh preparation. For ZBrush, Ptarmigan serves as a set of templates for generating custom brushes and alphas, giving artists a more streamlined sculpting experience.

Overview

I chose the name Ptarmigan after the state bird of Alaska. The ptarmigan is known for its remarkable ability to change color with the seasons — turning brown in summer and white in winter — allowing it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. That natural adaptability reflects the core idea behind this plugin: just as the bird adjusts to its environment, Ptarmigan adapts to different creative “seasons” and workflows. Whether working in Rhino, Grasshopper, Houdini, or ZBrush, the plugin evolves with each project’s needs, transforming to fit its context rather than remaining static.

Ptarmigan bridges digital modeling environments by providing lightweight, adaptable tools that work the way designers and artists do. Whether used for concept modeling, surfacing, or digital sculpting, the plugin keeps processes modular and efficient. Ptarmigan is currently under a WIP (Work in Progress), as many things have not been fully implemented or tested.

Goals

  • Speed up repetitive or technical workflows.
  • Maintain consistent UI and logic across multiple DCC tools.
  • Allow easy customization for project-specific tasks.
  • Provide open templates for scripting and automation.

Template Features

  • Cross-platform scripts for Rhino, Houdini, and ZBrush.
  • Predefined Grasshopper components for rapid prototyping.
  • Base classes for adding custom Rhino commands.
  • Template setup for ZBrush brushes and alpha libraries.

Documentation

You can explore the full Ptarmigan documentation here..

Next Steps

The Ptarmigan plugin is continuously expanding to cover more DCC applications. Each environment focuses on simplifying different aspects of creative workflow — from Rhino’s modeling precision to Houdini’s procedural flexibility and ZBrush’s sculpting depth.