What Live2D is
How it works
Live2D is a technique for animating a single illustration as if it were three-dimensional. Models are built in Live2D Cubism, software by the Japanese company Live2D Inc.
The artwork is split into small parts, each given deformation, rotation and movement data, so a flat illustration can move almost like a 3D object. No full 3D modeling is needed, and the original art's charm is preserved — that's its biggest strength.
Splitting the illustration into parts and setting up "how each part moves" is the job of a Live2D modeler.
What Live2D can do
Face: open/close eyes, eye tracking, blinking, mouth movement, eyebrows, expression variations (smile, surprise, sadness, etc.)
Body: breathing, shoulders, arms, leaning — a natural sense of being alive.
Sway: hair, ribbons, frills and skirts move naturally with physics.
Did you know?
Live2D is used well beyond VTubing — in games, ads, social video and more.
Live2D & VTubers
Live2D as a VTuber avatar
Live2D is one of the most popular avatar formats for VTubers. Your face is read by a webcam or iPhone Face ID and mapped onto the model in real time, so you can stream as your character.
Common tracking apps include VTube Studio and nizima LIVE.
Live2D vs 3D
- Keeps the illustration's exact style
- Great for anime / delicate art
- Easier on the budget
- Ideal for streaming
- Easy for indie VTubers to adopt
- Free movement in 3D space
- Full-body dance
- Full-body tracking
- Suited to VR activity
- Higher production cost
Many VTubers start on Live2D and add a 3D model later once they grow.
The production process
Character design / artwork
The illustrator draws the art. It's the foundation of the rig, so choosing the right illustrator really matters.
Part separation
The finished art is split into movable parts — eyes, mouth, hair, outfit — on separate layers and saved as a PSD.
Rigging
The PSD is loaded into Live2D Cubism and movement is built into each part: expressions, sway, physics — all the motion is made here.
Expressions & motion
Expression variations and special motions are built. This is where the character's personality shows most.
Testing & tuning
Running it in tracking software to check it moves as intended, then refining the details.
Delivery
The full model file set is delivered, ready to load into your streaming software.
Process tip
If you can, find your Live2D modeler before commissioning the artwork. You may get guidance on part-splitting and a rig-friendly way to draw.
Commissioning tips
What to look for in a modeler
- PortfolioAlways check moving video, not just stills.
- Style fitModelers specialize — cute, cool, realistic, and so on.
- Easy communicationIt's a weeks-to-months project, so pick someone easy to reach.
- Transparent pricingA clear base price and options is a good sign.
Budget guide
Rough ranges in the English-speaking commission market (rigging included). Prices vary widely by complexity, physics, outfits and the creator's experience.
On top of this you'll need artwork (illustration), commissioned separately — roughly $200–1,500+. Commercial use is typically 1.5–3× the standard rate. For my rates, see the price list.
How I rig
For three years I've rigged just under 50 models. What I care about most is drawing out what makes each character "them" through movement.
The timing of a blink, how the mouth moves, how fast the hair sways, the subtlety of a changing expression — each character's own "self" lives in those details. Finding that and building it carefully is what my rigging is about.
Selected work
- 🌸 Hinata (art: Shio Kazunoko)
- 🍪 Cookie (art: Shirosaki Yuu)
- 💤 Yume (art: tokuwat)
- 💎 Cleo, Ai & Palea (art: Ame)
- ❄️ Reina (art: Masuda Yoshi)
So I don't just deliver and disappear —
I work with you to find the angle
where they look their absolute best,
and build a model that's loved
on stream for a long time. ♡
FAQ
Live2D or 3D — which is better for me?▼
If you mainly stream or post video and want to keep your illustration's charm, Live2D fits. For VR activity or full-body dance, a 3D model is the better fit.
Can I commission a Live2D model if I can't draw?▼
Yes. The artwork is usually commissioned separately from an illustrator. I can also introduce illustrators I work with.
How long does it take?▼
About 1 month from start to delivery. Including the artwork, plan on roughly 2–4 months from concept to finished model.
Can independent VTubers commission you?▼
Of course — most of my clients are independent VTubers. Feel free to reach out.
Can I use the model beyond streaming?▼
Yes — social video, YouTube, merch, brand tie-ins and more. My delivered models are free to use for streaming, social media, merch and monetization.