RubberHose 2 from Battle Axe is the fastest way to build smooth, flexible limbs in After Effects. It brings the classic rubber-hose cartoon look to motion graphics without the complexity of a traditional IK rig — press one button and you have a limb you can pose immediately.
Two points, one limb
Each hose is driven by a start and an end point. Move them and the limb bends in a clean, natural arc — no joints to fight and no expressions to untangle.
Control the look
Adjust bend direction, width, tapering and squash to match your character's style, then attach hands, feet or props to the controllers to build complete arms and legs.
Who it is for
Ideal for character explainers, animated stickers and stylised motion graphics where a full IK rig would be overkill. It is lightweight, dependable and endlessly reusable.
Get RubberHose 2
Get RubberHose 2 on NexTools and start animating expressive limbs in minutes.
FAQ
How is it different from an IK rig?
RubberHose uses a simple two-point bend for a stylised look, while IK simulates real joints. RubberHose is faster; IK is better for realistic articulation.
Can I reuse a hose?
Yes, setups reuse cleanly across shots and characters.
