Bevel Weight

This tutorial will walk through the process of applying bevels to specific edges of a mesh, and adjusting those bevels real-time.

Version 2.63

In version 2.63, beveled edges is a native function under the specials [W] menu. Simply select the edge(s) and apply the Bevel.

The effect is simple as expected.

The strength of the Beveled edge can be controlled in the tools [T] menu once the bevel is created.  Adjust the Percentage to adjust the strength of the bevel.

Also, one trick I discovered is that, since recursion isn't available in this version, you can approximate rounded edges by performing successive Bevels keeping all the previous new edges selected and adjusting the percentage to even them out.

Older than 2.63

First get the Edge Tools add-on which can be found here: Edge Tools Addon.

Install this addon through the User Preferences and enable it.

Apply a Bevel Modifier to the object.  Normally this just applies a standard bevel to every edge of the object.  However, to bevel only specific edges, more steps are required.  Select Weight for the Limit Method.

Next, in edit mode of the object, select only the desired edges to be beveled.  Bring up the generic search menu [spacebar], and search for Set Bevel Weight.  Select that option.

Another dialog comes up asking for weight.  Just set it 1.0.  The actual adjustment of the bevel will be performed in the modifier.  Make sure the OK button is clicked.  If the dialog box disappears before you click OK, then the weight will not be applied.

At this point the bevel is applied, and its thickness can be adjust by the width parameter in the modifier.