What is UV mapping and how does it work?
Published: Jan 21 2024 by Last documented update: Jan 21 2024 by
This page contains the theory of how to connect meshes (3d objects) with textures (which are 2d after all)
For a hands-on guide to UV mapping, check Adding decals -> #step-5-uv-projection
For import/export help, check Textures: Importing, editing, exporting
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.
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:
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
If you work with UV mappings, you should definitely check out MioUV. It automates a bunch of things that used to take the better part of an afternoon:
