How to Make 3D Models in Procreate: A Comprehensive Guide on Importing, Painting and Exporting 3D Artwork
Aug 6, 2023
In the ever-evolving realm of digital art, Procreate has established itself as an essential tool embraced by artists. While its main acclaim lies in its 2D capabilities, the introduction of 3D painting in Procreate 5X has transformed artists' approach to their craft.
This groundbreaking feature doesn't enable the creation of 3D models from scratch but rather provides a platform for importing, painting, and exporting 3D models—an exciting new dimension unlocked for artistic expression.
What Is a 3D Model in Procreate?
3D models in Procreate are digital objects that exist in three dimensions. Artists have the ability to rotate these models, view them from different angles, and paint directly onto their surfaces. This groundbreaking feature allows artists to interact with a 3D object within a digital painting app, opening up new creative possibilities on an entirely different canvas.
Advantages of 3D Models in Procreate
Enhanced realism: Artists can achieve enhanced realism through 3D modeling. This feature enables them to visualize their creations with added depth and perspective that goes beyond the limitations of traditional 2D art.
Immersive experience: 3D models enable artists, game designers, and illustrators to bring their imaginative works to life in an immersive way, providing a truly captivating experience.
Painting on an object: Utilizing 3D models grants artists a remarkable advantage – the capability to directly apply their brush strokes onto the model itself. This feature offers artists real-time visualization of their artwork on a three-dimensional object of various textures, completely transforming their artistic process.
Infinite use cases: There is an array of ways in which artists can use the 3D models in Procreate. For example, the 3D capability may be useful in fashion and product design, in creating game characters, tattoos, or architectural visualization.
Intuitive 3D interface: Procreate offers an interface that is both intuitive and user-friendly, allowing everyone from beginners to experts to easily navigate its 3D capabilities.
Efficiency: The 3D feature significantly accelerates the texturing process, making it highly valued among 3D artists working in industries where speed and efficiency are paramount.
Procreate’s 3D Device Accessibility
Procreate's 3D capabilities can be accessed on devices running iOS 14 or later, with Procreate version 5.2 and above. This ensures that a wide range of users, whether they have an older iPad or the latest model, can enjoy these features.
It is important to consider that the performance may vary based on the device's processing power and the complexity of the 3D model. While Procreate's 3D features are compatible with any eligible device, optimal performance is achieved on newer and more powerful devices.
Can You Create a 3D Model in Procreate from Scratch?
Currently, Procreate there is no capability to create 3D models in Procreate from scratch. While some may view this as a limitation, it is important to understand that Procreate is primarily designed as a digital painting app, rather than a dedicated 3D modeling software. Its true strength lies in its comprehensive painting and drawing tools. The incorporation of 3D painting capabilities within Procreate serves as an extension of these existing features, rather than a replacement for specialized 3D modeling programs.
The ability to add 3D models to Procreate and directly paint on them is an incredibly powerful feature. It allows artists to concentrate on the artistic aspects of texturing and coloring, without being overwhelmed by the technical intricacies of 3D modeling. In essence, it combines the creative liberation of digital painting with the immersive authenticity provided by 3D models.
How to Paint a 3D Model in Procreate
Below, we provide a step-by-step guide on how to paint a 3D model in Procreate, with key features and techniques explained in detail.
Importing the Model
The initial step for painting a 3D model in Procreate involves importing the model into the app. This task is simple and can be completed by tapping on the "+" button located at the top right corner of the screen and choosing "Import 3D Model".
You have the flexibility to import models saved in .obj or .usdz format from your device or cloud storage. After successfully importing, you will find the model displayed on your canvas, allowing you to begin your painting process.
Selecting a Layer
When importing a 3D model into Procreate, users will notice that the Layers panel displays distinct layers representing various material properties of the model.
These layers encompass the color layer, roughness layer, and metallic layer. By selecting a specific layer, artists gain precise control to directly paint on that particular aspect of the model. This allows for meticulous customization of the artwork's appearance and texture.
Painting the Colour Layer
The color layer, also referred to as the albedo or diffuse layer, is where the base colors are applied to the model. This particular layer is often associated with painting a model.
You have access to various Procreate painting tools on this layer, such as brushes, smudge tools, and erasers. Any modifications you make appear instantly on the 3D model, giving you a real-time representation of your artwork coming to life.
Roughness and Metallic Layers
The shininess and reflectivity of a model are determined by the roughness and metallic layers. These layers enhance the realism of your model, going beyond the impact of color alone.
By applying various shades of gray to these layers, you have precise control over how light interacts with your model, allowing for a diverse range of effects such as matte surfaces or shiny metals.
Show 2D Texture
Procreate offers users the ability to access a 2D texture map of their 3D models. By simply tapping on the "Show 2D Texture" button in the Actions panel, you can instantly view a flat representation of your model.
This feature proves incredibly valuable for making precise adjustments, evaluating how your artwork appears in 2D, and understanding how the 2D texture aligns with the 3D model. It's akin to having a direct editing map for your model.
Adjust Lighting and Environment
3D painting offers an array of thrilling features. One particularly exciting aspect is the ability to fine-tune the lighting and environment surrounding your model.
By simply tapping on the "Lighting" button in the Actions panel, you gain control over both the direction and intensity of light within your scene. This invaluable functionality enables you to explore different lighting conditions and visualize how they impact your artwork, resulting in dynamic and lifelike creations.
In addition to adjusting the lighting, you can also modify the model's environment. Procreate offers a range of environment maps that provide various reflections on the model, enhancing realism in your artwork. This creates an immersive experience where the model becomes part of a genuine physical setting.
How to Export a 3D Model from Procreate
Once your 3D model is finished being painted in Procreate, exporting it is a breeze. Simply navigate to the Actions panel, click on "Share", and select the desired format (.obj or .usdz) for export.
After that, you have multiple options: save the model directly to your device, share it with other apps, or even transform it into a physical object by printing it using a 3D printer.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, there currently isn’t a straightforward way to make your own 3D model in Procreate. However, it offers artists a powerful and intuitive platform for bringing their existing 3D creations to life through its exceptional 3D painting features.
Whether you are an experienced professional or an aspiring artist, incorporating Procreate's 3D capabilities into your digital art journey can unlock new dimensions of creativity. So why hesitate? Immerse yourself in the world of 3D painting with Procreate and witness your imagination soar to unprecedented heights.