Hi I am relatively new to iClone & CTA . I also have toonmaker & avatar tookit + 3DExchange & CTA2 Pipeline.

I'm looking for some more in-depth tutorials on character creation such that I can create my own toon styles. I don't have the luxury of Maya but do have ZBrush.
The typical idea is to be able to create a basic character (some odd ball looking folk) and then be able to use them in iClone with animatable features.
I'm missing some understanding here on the work flow. I have seen some good tutorials but this references Maya and Blend Shapes.
How would someone do this if they do not have the luxury of Maya?
I saw Avatar Toolkit & Toon Maker as a way but still feel I have a knowledge gap here.
I would like to create my own unique style of models. Basically more simple looking characters similar to "Ted" in CTA2.
Doesn't need so much details skin texture, nor body details like muscles. Think more in line "Toy Story" type characters on a low end.
My main reason for this is to be able to make a collection of cartoon series characters for simple animations, rather than life like realism.
TBH I hate those droid looking G5 Characters in iClone they have no sense of humour look to them, they look more like gaming type characters.
Therefore no desire to animate them at all :hehe:
Think more on lines Wallace & Grommit, Toy Story, Gorf (but simpler), flower pot men, family guy, south park but in 3D.
Basic body shapes with little definition or body shapes made from objects.

ANY help or advice really appreciated !! :)

I am a learn by example type of guy so ...

Work Breakdown idea is as follows:

1. Sketch my Character design on paper as conceptual
2. Build the character using ZBrush and possibly something like 3DS Max. Maya too expensive for us simple folk :-)
3. Apply basic Paint/Shading to the skin (imagine a blob character, short stuuby legs and arms, oval head or a freaky long skinny dude)
4. Does not need deep details such as wrinkles or muscle detail. Not looking for photo realistic. I'm relying more on script and audio to enhance the end result(s).
3. Employ Basic Bone or Morph (whichever is easiest). Eyes, Nose, Mouth, Eyebrows, arms, hands, legs feet
3. Port Characters into iClone for animation potentially via Toon Maker!

I know there's loads of tutorials out there and viewed MANY but I still feel stuck with unanswered questions in certain areas.
I do feel that Toon Maker / Avatar Toolkit might be the way BUT how do I create MY OWN 3D shapes for use therein??

Thank you very much to all your past efforts amnd tutorials!! They really help.

Alan