how do I modify my topology to follow the path I want instead of what it already is?

Question

When pressing Ctrl + Alt + RtMouseButton to see what the topology is then seeing it is not travling in the direction one wants. How to I figure out what to do to redirect it to the path I want it to take?

take this image for example. Say I want it to have topology so that it follows under the breast then upwords so it has a bra strap effect.

what are the rules of thumb to know where to cut it and re-attach the squares to get the desired effect?

I have it torn down a bit now, trying to figure this out.

I'm not totally sure how important how the topology is set up on a modle, because I have seen more then one pattern for the same area. This leads to confustion. I have not gotten past this phase yet into the adding color, texture, then boning of a modle to know how the boning effects whatever way it was topolog-ized prior to adding a bone structor to the modle.

I just do not want to run into a problem when adding bones then finding the movment is not life like. Having the modle bend in odd ways.

Answer 1

For proper Retopology, it is recommended to keep the original mesh as a mere foundation of the shape. And then start with a new object from scratch and apply the desired topology.

Here is a relatively easy way how to do good retoplogy without using any third party addons:

• Step 1: Create your Base Model. The Toplogy is unimportant at this point. It also can be a sculpted mesh with a high polycount. But make sure it does not slow your system too much down:
  
  
• Step 2: Create a new object and open the edit mode.
  
• Step 3: Enable "snap during transform" and set it to "Face"
  
  
• Step 4: Select a vertice point and hit G. Snap it to the desired position.
  
  
• Step 5: Form the desired shape of your topology.
  
  
• Step 5: Continue to form the topology and connect edges.
  
  
• Step 6: Go on until you are done.
  
  Also here is a list of some good topology references: https://de.pinterest.com/demons_fate/mesh-toplogy/

Answer 2

Rotate Selected Edge

You will have options for Clockwise or Counter Clockwise.

5 edge poles affect flow in your topology. You already have 5 edge poles for changing flow in your model. Sometimes extrude or inset produces 5 edge poles. This tool will allow you to experiment with more 5 edge poles easily and quickly. You can undo quickly as well. Edit mode for the mesh.

Control+e .... Control+e brings up the menu..

Below two operations of rotate edge on a symmetrical plane grid. The result is a flow change as illustrated. Technique, not artistry, is demonstrated. Note the production of 5 edge poles.