Problems Selecting Objects to Bend in Cinema 4D

Published on January 08, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Cinema 4D interface showing correct Bend deformer setup with object selected and parameters active

The Mystery of the Deformer That Doesn't Bend

It's completely normal to have these problems when you start with Cinema 4D. The Bend function seems like it should be simple, but it has its particularities that can frustrate new users. The problem you describe, where you select the object, apply the Bend deformer, but nothing happens when adjusting the strength, is more common than you imagine and almost always due to how the object hierarchy is organized in the Manager.

In Cinema 4D, deformers like Bend don't work as direct tools you apply to a selected object. Instead, they need to be properly organized in the hierarchy to affect the geometry. Think of deformers as effect layers that process the geometry below them in the object list.

In Cinema 4D, a deformer without the correct hierarchy is like an engine without gasoline: everything is in place but there's no power

Correct Hierarchy Setup

The most frequent error is not organizing the objects correctly in the Cinema 4D Manager. The Bend deformer must be the parent of the object you want to bend.

Correct Step-by-Step Method

Follow this exact process to ensure the Bend works correctly. Don't skip any steps.

First create the Bend deformer from the Deformers menu or tools palette. Then organize the hierarchy by dragging your object to make it a child of the deformer 😊

Bend Parameters Verification

Once you have the correct hierarchy, you need to verify that the Bend parameters are set to affect your object.

Select the Bend deformer in the Object Manager and go to the Attribute Manager. This is where you control the strength, direction, and limits of the deformation.

Common Problems and Solutions

These are the specific errors that usually cause the Bend not to work and how to solve them quickly.

If the object has very few segments, the Bend won't be able to deform it correctly. The geometry needs enough subdivision to bend.

Quick Solution with Make Editable

If you're using parametric objects (like primitives that haven't been converted to polygons), the Bend may not work correctly.

Select your object and press the C key or go to Functions > Make Editable. This converts the parametric object to editable polygon geometry.

Segment Setup for Bending

Objects with few segments don't bend well. You need enough geometry for the deformation to be smooth.

If you use a primitive like a cylinder or plane, increase the segments before applying the Bend. More segments = smoother deformation.

Alternative Method with Selection Tags

To bend only specific parts of an object, you can use selections and the Bend deformer's Restrict tag.

Create a polygon selection, add a selection tag, and then use the Bend's Restrict field to limit its effect to that area.

Display Mode Verification

Sometimes the Bend is working but you don't see it because the display mode hides deformers.

Check the display toolbar and ensure deformer modes are activated.

Workflow for Beginners

Follow this simplified workflow to avoid confusion when starting with deformers in Cinema 4D.

Practice with simple objects like cylinders or planes before trying to bend complex geometry.

Additional Learning Resources

Since you're new to Cinema 4D, these resources will help you better understand the workflow with deformers.

Search for specific tutorials on "Cinema 4D deformers" or "Bend tool tutorial" to see the process in action.

After following these steps, the Bend deformer should work correctly, allowing you to bend objects precisely... and most importantly, you'll have overcome one of those initial hurdles we all face when starting with Cinema 4D 🎯