UV Mapping: texturing a 3d object
What is UV mapping and how does it work?
Summary
Published: Jan 21 2024 by manavortex Last documented update: Jan 21 2024 by manavortex
This page contains the theory of how to connect meshes (3d objects) with textures (which are 2d after all)
Wait, this isn't what I want!
For a hands-on guide to UV mapping, check Adding decals -> Step 5: UV projection
For import/export help, check Textures: Importing, editing, exporting
What is "UV mapping" and can I eat it?
This is the technical term for the process of mapping a flat texture on your three-dimensional object. The most hands-on example for this is Christmas chocolate:
Regardless of that, you can not eat it.
Where can I see them?
To look at an object's UV mapping, you'll have to fire up Blender (or a 3d editing software of your choice).
An object's UV maps are visible in the Data tab:
How do I edit the UV mapping?
To look at an object's UV mapping, you'll have to fire up Blender (or a 3d editing software of your choice).
Open the UV editing perspective, select a mesh, and switch to Edit Mode. If you select vertices in the viewport
on the right, you can see their UV islands in the UV editor
on the left:
You change the mapping by editing those UV islands. For a more hands-on guide of this, refer to Adding decals -> Step 5: UV projection
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