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uv-mapping-texturing-a-3d-object.md

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description
What is UV mapping and how does it work?

UV Mapping: texturing a 3d object

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!

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?

{% hint style="info" %} To look at an object's UV mapping, you'll have to fire up Blender (or a 3d editing software of your choice). {% endhint %}

An object's UV maps are visible in the Data tab:

How do I edit the UV mapping?

{% hint style="info" %} To look at an object's UV mapping, you'll have to fire up Blender (or a 3d editing software of your choice). {% endhint %}

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.md -> #step-5-uv-projection

Recommended AddOns

MioUV (Blender 4.2, free)

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: