how do i apply textures to only selected polys? I have this model, and whenever i just select one poly, and set a material to it, it applies it to the whole model. this is probably really obvious, but i just started trying to model
heres a pic of it just for kicks:


i put a target light and omni for i dont know why but im probably going to start on something else like a static object, maybe a box or barrel

The first material you apply to an object gets applied to the whole mesh because you aren't allowed to mix sufaces with and without materials on an object. Make a neutral material and apply that to the whole object first if this really bothers you that much.

Make a cube, convert to poly, select few polys and then fire up the material editor(m)

select a bitmap or just change the diffuse color of the material

Assign matetrial selection (3rd button below the material slots)

Show map in viewport (9th button below the material slots)

The selcted polys with get the new material and the others will probably become grey

thanks alot, im no longer working on that model because it sucked, but now i know for the future