Make heightmap from image for bas-relief step by step

This is a step by step overview of the process for making a heightmap from a 2D image without using AI based tools. A heightmap is a greyscale image that represents 3d height in pixel form.
Heightmaps can then be used in CAD for CNC and 3D printing as well as for digital sculpting.
It can be time consuming depending on the complexity and detail needed for an image, however for non-photographic or very flat looking images it is best to have complete control of the process. This is for people who want a very specific result with a particular image.
Thanks for watching!

I've written an article for this video here:
https://theartsquirrel.com/3787/2d-im...

My other videos referred to in this video useful to some of the steps

Digital Painting a Squirrel Drinking Hot Chocolate
   • Digital Painting a Squirrel Drinking ...  
Improving 2D generated (non AI) normal maps using sculpting in Blender
   • Improving 2D generated (non AI) norma...  
Bas Relief Zbrush Sculpt Squirrel Drinking Hot Chocolate
   • Bas Relief Zbrush Sculpt Squirrel Dri...  

My Website: https://thimblefolio.com
My Blog: https://theartsquirrel.com

0:00 Intro and what the result will be
0:39 2D Image
0:46 Make an initial normal map using Laigter
1:36 Create heightmap in Laigter
1:52 Sculpt a better normal map using Blender
2:35 Extract Light directions from the normal map
3:26 Hand paint better light directions
4:24 Recombine the hand painted light directions into a new normal map using Sprite lamp
6:00 Create masks for parts of the 2D image
7:17 Create normal maps for the parts in Laigter
7:30 Re-combine the parts into a normal map
7:45 Blend the 2 normal maps in Krita
9:00 Extract the displacement / heightmap from the combined normal map