Quick Tip: Custom Attributes for Better Control

The Problem

Procedural systems are powerful, but they can be intimidating for artists who just want to adjust one thing.

The Solution

Custom attributes with sensible names and ranges.

Example

Instead of exposing raw noise parameters:

# Bad: Technical and unclear
frequency = 0.347
octaves = 4.2
lacunarity = 2.1

Create artist-friendly controls:

# Good: Clear intent
terrain_roughness = 0.5  # 0 = smooth, 1 = very rough
detail_level = 0.7       # 0 = simple, 1 = complex
variation = 0.3          # 0 = uniform, 1 = varied

Implementation in Houdini

1. Create a parameter interface
2. Remap values to technical parameters
3. Add clear labels and tooltips
4. Set sensible min/max ranges

The Result

Artists can iterate quickly without needing to understand the underlying math. Win-win.

Bonus Tip

Include presets! “Smooth Plains,” “Rocky Hills,” “Mountain Range” - instant starting points for exploration.