Abstract: We present a novel framework for the dynamic simulation of elastic deformable solids. Our approach combines classical finite element methodology with a multiresolution subdivision framework in order to produce fast, easy to use, and realistic animations. We represent deformations using a hierarchical basis constructed using volumetric subdivision. The subdivision framework provides topological flexibility and the hierarchical basis allows the simulation to add detail where it is needed. Since volumetric parameterization is difficult for complex models, we support the embedding of objects in domains that are easier to parameterize.