Expected 3D support is reaching Procreate users with the release of the latest beta 5.2. Yes, Procreate is moving to a 3D painting app with this update. It allows users to paint 3D models, add realistic lights and shadow effects, and view 3D models in the real world using the iPad’s LiDAR camera. So if you have the Procreate 5.2 update, it’s time to figure out how to import and export 3D models. Once imported, you can paint and use 3D models in your artwork. This feature and process will work in Procreate on most iPad models, including the new M1 iPad Pro. So let’s not delay this any longer. Grab your Apple Pencil and learn how to import and export 3D models in Procreate.
Importing and Exporting 3D Models in Procreate (2022)
After installing the 3D update, Procreate will provide you with several 3D assets to work with within the application. You can still easily use your own 3D designs exported from software like Unity, Blender, and Cinema 4D. Note, however, that you cannot model or mold 3D objects in Procreate, so make sure they are in their final state before proceeding and importing. The 3D models used in this tutorial are part of the Procreate Beta 5.2 update.
In this article, we’ll cover the supported file formats and methods you can use to import and export 3D models in Procreate.
Import 3D Models in Procreate
Before you begin, make sure to transfer your 3D object files to your iPad using iTunes or any of its alternatives. Alternatively, you can also download open source and free 3D files directly to your iPad. Free 3D assets are just a call away. So, before you start importing and exporting 3D files in Procreate, prepare your object.
Supported File Formats
By developer notesyou can just use OBJ, UNITED STATES DOLLAR, and USDZ File formats with Procreate. These are extremely reliable 3D file formats, but each has its limitations. The USD or Universal Scene Description is a basic data file for 3D assets. It is the official file format of Pixar Animation Studios. USD stores important layered data, including geometry, shadow, animations, and surface-level data. You may not find USD outside of the Apple or Pixar ecosystem.
On the other hand, OBJ files are mainstream and can be used in almost any 3D modeling software. It is a simpler file format that contains the object structure, texture mapping, and 3D coordinates of the object. when it comes USDZ Note that for files, they are the only files that support built-in material textures. This means that your OBJ and USD files will be a color or image-free structure when imported into Procreate.
How to Import 3D Models Using OBJ, USDZ, or USD Files in Procreate
1. Once you’ve transferred or downloaded the 3D files to your iPad, it’s time to import them into Procreate. Hungry Folders The app on your iPad to get started.
2. In the Files app, locate the 3D file you want to use in Procreate. If you did it recently, it will also be accessible from “Recents”. The section in the left pane in the Files app. For this lesson we will use the file “Skateboard.usdz”.
3. Now tap and hold your 3D file until a popup context menu appears. In the context menu, tap . “Share” button.
4. From the share menu popup that appears, Slap through existing apps Find Procreate and tap To import the file Yes, it’s that easy to amplify 3D models in Procreate on iPad.
5. When the upload is complete, your 3D object will be ready to use in Procreate. When opening, it may take longer than usual to load due to larger sized 3D files.
Export 3D Models from Procreate
Importing 3D models is easy, even with limited file extension support. But when you’re done with your 3D painting creations, you must be wondering – how can you export 3D files from Procreate? It’s as easy as importing files, but you have many additional file format options.
Supported File Extensions
Here is a list of support file formats you can use to export 3D files in Procreate. Let’s go over each of these options to understand which one best suits your needs.
- JPEG, PNG or TIFF: If you’ve used Procreate before, these are the common file formats used to export your project as images. This means you cannot reposition, open or edit your 3D object.
- Animated GIF, PNG, MP4, HEVC: If you have animated your 3D object in Procreate on your iPad, these options will help you export it as a video.
- TO PRODUCE: The most powerful but least shareable option is .procreate. This is the default file format and you can only use it in Procreate. When your 3D object is exported with this option, it will retain all of its layers, position, angle, properties, textures, and more.
- USDZ: This Apple and Pixar ecosystem-based file format includes not only the structural data of your 3D object, but also basic texture and environmental information. It is not as perfect or flawless as the .procreate file format. But this is the closest you can get without losing compatibility.
- OBJ: The most popular and compatible 3D object format exports it as a building object. Unless you can open or rotate it, it will be the same as the imported OBJ file.
- tissue: If you choose to export your 3D model as an .OBJ file, you must also export the texture files as PNG. It can then be imported into other modeling software and applied directly to the model.
How to Export 3D Models from Procreate on iPad
1. To start, open the 3D image you want to export. All your 2D and 3D drawings appear on the Procreate home screen and you can tap to open them. For this tutorial, I will export the edited Skateboard 3D file.
2. Once your 3D file has been uploaded or edited, tap the actions icon. It’s the wrench icon next to the “Gallery” option in the upper-left corner of the screen. Next, tap on Share button in the pop-up menu.
4. Now you will see several options to export the file. You can choose a file format according to your needs. If you export your file as OBJ, don’t forget to export the textures as PNG as well, the option at the end of the list. Tap on a file extension to export your 3D artwork in Procreate.
5. After a short loading screen, iPad will open the share page and ask you to take action. You can share the exported file with any of the installed apps or “Save to Files” or “Add to PhotosOption to save locally to your iPad.
6. Under the “Save to Files” option, you must select a suitable folder location and Tap the “Save” button in the upper right corner. You can even save your 3D file painted with Procreate to iCloud or other cloud storage platforms.
Import and Export 3D Objects in Procreate in a Few Clicks!
This is how you can easily import and export 3D models in Procreate. If you don’t see the options mentioned above in the Procreate app on your iPad, you may have to wait for the official update. After Procreate 5.2 has updated the widely available one, you can use the steps above to import and export 3D models. Now, as many of you know, Procreate has no official plans for an Android version. So you will have to stick with one of these best Procreate alternatives for Android. Similarly, PC users can choose one of these best Procreate alternatives for Windows 10. It’s for sure that these also work in Windows 11.
If you’re among the limited audience with the new 3D Procreate beta update, don’t forget to share your drawings with us. We may not be able to help with your art, but if you’re stuck with new options, drop your query in the comments below. Our team will help solve the problem as soon as possible.
