Welcome to the FAQ Page

Here you can find some frequently asked questions and the correlating answers.

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General

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Q. What is OpenScatter?

OpenScatter is a free and open-source Blender add-on designed for non-destructive, artist-friendly scattering of objects (e.g., vegetation, rocks) with advanced controls, optimization features, and dynamic animation tools.

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Q. Is OpenScatter really free?

Yes! OpenScatter is licensed under the GNU GPLv3, meaning it’s free to use, modify, and distribute. You can download it for free on GitHub. Purchasing on BlenderMarket is optional but supports the project and the Blender Development Fund.

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Q. Which Blender versions are supported?

As of release, the supported Blender versions are 4.2 LTS and newer. I plan on providing support for all future Blender versions.

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Features & Workflow

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Q. What are “scatter systems”

Scatter systems are the core of OpenScatter. You can think of each scatter system as it's own layer. For example, you can have one layer (scatter sytem) for grass, one for rocks, and one for clover. This allows you to keep everything organized and non-destructive.

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Q. What is an "Emitter Object"?

An emitter object stores all the info and settings for your scatter systems. When you use the addon, you pick an emitter object, then you add and adjust scatter systems for that emitter object. To add scatter systems to another emitter, just use the object picker at the top of the panel to select a new emitter object. All scatter systems will be stored and linked to the appropriate emitter objects.

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License

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Q. Can I use OpenScatter for commercial projects?

Yes! You can use OpenScatter for just about anything you want. However, if you work on a team and/or on larger commercial projects, donating would be super appreciated <3

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Q. Can I redistribute OpenScatter?

Yes. The GNU General Public License v3.0 allows you to redistribute/share and modify the addon—provided derivatives remain GPLv3.

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Q. Can I charge money for derivatives of the addon?

Yes. As long as you follow these key rules (and follow the official license):

1. You Must Give Recipients the Same Rights

   When selling, you must provide the full source code of the GPLv3 software to buyers (either with the software or on request).

   Buyers must also have the freedom to share, modify, or resell the software themselves. You can’t stop them.

2. No Extra Restrictions

   • You can’t add terms like:
     • “You can’t redistribute this for free.”
     • “Only I can sell this software.”
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Support & Contributions

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Q. Where do I get help or report bugs?

You can report any issues you're having with OpenScatter on the issues page of the github repository.

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Q. How can I contribute to/support OpenScatter?

The best way you support the development of this OpenScatter is to purchase the $10 version of the addon on BlenderMarket. You can also support me on Kofi or Liberapay.

If you can’t afford the $10 version on Blendermarket, just getting the $1 version and leaving a rating would go a long way. But no matter what, telling your friends about OpenScatter and sharing it around helps me a lot.

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