Get Started

What is Unfolder?

Unfolder is a 3D model unfolding tool for papercraft designers. Typically, you use Unfolder in the following workflow:

1. Create a 3D model in a modeling tool.
2. Import the 3D model into Unfolder to generate the 2D template.
3. Edit the template in Unfolder.
4. Export the template to print or do further editing in other applications.

How to Create 3D Models?

You can create 3D models in any polygonal modeling software that can export the model in OBJ format. It's not recommended to use the model created for other purposes (visual art, video games, 3D printing, etc.). The following sections list some requirements of the model for papercraft.

Complexity

The template generated using a high-poly model may be hard to cut and glue. You should keep the model as simple as possible.

Face Normal

The direction of the face normal is important because it decides which side of the face is the printed side of the paper. You can highlight backface in the 3D view to check the face normal direction. Two connected faces with reversed normal cannot join together, since it's impossible in the real world.

Manifoldness

Two faces can join together if they share the same edge. In other words, the edge is manifold. An edge shared by more than two faces is non-manifold, and these faces cannot join together. You can highlight non-manifold edges in the 3D view to check the manifoldness of each edge.

What's Next?

You can read the remaining chapters in this guide, or start using Unfolder and come back to this guide when you need help. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.