Selection of outer faces

[Jpjapers]

I have a model of a lampshade. I want to only select the outer faces as the outside is a different colour to the inside.
I cant for the life of me figure out how to quickly select just the outside faces. Can anyone help?

Thanks
Jack

[NicolasC]

In the Editable / Edit Poly selection rollout, you can select polys by angle. This way, you can for example set the angle threshold to 15°, then select a single poly in the viewport, it will select automatically all the faces sharing this angle threshold. Don't forget to check Ignore Backfacing in your case ...
Alternatively, you should certainly take a look at some options in the Ribbon, especially the "Select Similar" feature, with several options. Really useful for daily work !

[Nejc Kilar]

I'd probably start by using the "By Angle" selection (3ds Max) or Phong Break Selection (C4D). This way you'll be able to select a surface by defining the limiting angle.

If that doesn't get you far then you could select the outer most edges, so basically the edges where the inside touches the outside. Think of it like having to select the top and bottom edges on a cylinder.

In 3ds Max you can then go under Modify Selection (in the ribbon) and select "fill". You'll probably need to select a third edge in that case which ultimately is just a random edge in between the two limiting edges.

In C4D you'd select the two edges and then use Select - Fill Selection :)

Hopefully that helps.

edit: Got beat by NicholasC, well done! :P

[Jpjapers]

You legends thank you!