Prepare a model's texture layout, paint a recognizable detail, and confirm that the texture is saved with the scene. Start with a simple object so you can see how its flat UV layout maps onto its surface.
Prepare the Surface
Use a writable saved scene and an unlocked eligible mesh. Finish substantial volume sculpting first: Add and Excavate replace the UV layout.
•Select the model - Choose it in Scene or the viewport and switch to Material view.
•Open UV Map - Inspect the existing layout. Preserve a usable imported map unless you have a specific reason to replace it.
•Choose an unwrap if needed - For a supported mesh with unsuitable coordinates, choose a projection that fits the form, such as Box for a block-like object or Smart Unwrap for a more general starting point.
Changing the projection rearranges where every painted feature will land. Do this before spending time on detailed artwork.
Make Room for the Important Detail
•Select an island - In Object posture, select a complete UV island. Use Face, Edge, or Node when a smaller adjustment is needed.
•Adjust its placement - Move, rotate, or scale the island while checking the model preview. Give a prominent face enough space for its detail.
•Refine the layout - Use seams, pins, Relax, or Pack when needed. Avoid accidental overlaps if different model parts should receive different paint.
Check the current selection before using transform controls. With no selected components, they can change overall material texture placement instead of the layout's individual nodes.
Connect a Paint Texture
•Open Paint - Select the model and use the panel's create-or-choose actions if it has no editable Canvas texture yet.
•Choose a resolution - Begin with 1K for a modest first texture. Choose a larger square canvas only when the model's visible detail needs it.
•Wait for the surface - Let the Canvas texture open before using the model as a painting surface. If the model opens its imported source in UV Map instead, inspect that source before deciding to replace it.
Paint and Verify
•Make a recognizable mark - Choose Brush or Pencil, set its appearance, and paint a small stripe or patch. You can work directly on the ready model or in the flat Paint panel.
•Check both views - Rotate the model and compare it with the flat texture. If a mark appears on several unrelated faces, inspect overlapping UVs before painting more.
•Refine the result - Use Eraser or the texture editor's undo controls where appropriate, then add the detail you want to keep.
•Wait for Saved - The Paint workspace autosaves. Confirm that both source saving and the Poly texture attachment finish; a visible preview is not the final checkpoint.
If the message says that Canvas saved but the Poly attachment is still pending, use Ctrl+S or Command+S to retry saving and leave the editor open while it finishes. Do not treat a successful Canvas save alone as completion.
Reopen the scene through Poly's explorer to check the saved surface. For broader choices about imported textures, seams, and layout tools, read Materials, UV Maps, and Painting.
