How to View 3D Models in AR Using Procreate

Oct. 25, 2021

Users are just settling in with the rollout of 3D painting in Procreate, but the stream of new features doesn’t seem to end. One such ability is to view 3D models in AR using Procreate to present your creations in the real world. These work with the iPad’s built-in AR-centric features. So, you don’t have to worry about downloading any app other than Procreate to view 3D models in AR. As long as you have the supported version of Procreate, this feature will work on all modern iPads, including thenew M1 iPad Pro. Now, let’s not waste a moment more and learn how to view 3D Models in AR using Procreate.

The process of viewing your Procreate 3D models in AR is quite easy. However, 3D models are still something not many are familiar with. So let’s begin our journey by understanding what exactly are 3D models and how to download free 3D models for use in Procreate. You can skip directly to the steps to view 3D objects in AR using the table below.

Before we look at the sources to download 3D models to use in Procreate, let’s go over a brief explanation of 3D objects.

By definition, 3D models are objects withdefined dimensional properties in every direction. Unlike a 2D object, whose only one side or angle is accessible, 3D objects can be viewed and edited from every angle. These models are mathematical representations of the objects. So just like vector images, you can increase and decrease their size exponentially with ease. You will notice it while we view 3D models in AR using Procreate.

And to do that, you first need a 3D model that you edit and paint in Procreate. The internet is home to several free 3D assets. But do keep in mind that we are looking for files withOBJ,USD,andUSDZextensions. Even among the supported 3D files in Procreate, only OBJ files are easily available for free.

Now, all you need to do is visit any of the popular free 3D assets websites listed below and download files with theOBJ extension. Then, you can transfer it to your iPad usingiTunes or its alternatives, or you can even download it directly onto your iPad. A few free and reliable sources to download 3D models are listed here:

Do keep in mind that free 3D files available on these websites aren’t exactly free to use in every case. Unless a Free 3D model states that it is ‘Free for Commerical Usage‘ or has a ‘Royalty Free License‘, you can only use it for your personal projects. You cannot sell or profit from these personal projects in any way. Fortunately, all of these websites mention the license details on the download page itself. So, keep an eye out for that before you download 3D files for your Procreate project.

Augmented Reality (or AR) is an interactive media technique that allows you to view 3D objects in the real world. It is the same technology that you use in popular games such asPokemon Goand face filters on Instagram, Snapchat, and other social media apps.

Unlike Virtual Reality (VR), AR doesn’t replace the world you see with a fictional world. Instead, itonlyputs interactable objects in the world around you, and you can see them from multiple angles. It works by tracing the environment through your camera and using AI to understand the dimensions, differences, and light interaction. Then, we can place any realistic 3D object that we can see and interact with in real-time using our AR device.

Having said that, let’s see how to use this technology and view 3D models in AR using Procreate.

Note: We are testing this feature on Procreate Beta version 5.2, but you can expect it to work in future versions as well. The Procreate 5.2 update should roll out to all users in the coming weeks.

Before we begin, make sure to import your 3D model in Procreate. It should be visible on your homescreen. Still, if you don’t know how to do that, we have a dedicated guide onhow to import and export 3D models in Procreate. Then, follow the steps below:

1. Select the desired 3D model from the Procreate homescreen to open it. For this tutorial, we will be using a Ceramic Vase Model, which is available as a free test model for Procreate beta 5.2

2. Once you are done with any edits you want,tap on the Actions button(wrench icon) next to the Gallery option in the top menu bar. It is located at the top left corner of the screen.

3. Then, under the Actions menu,tap on the 3D option. It is denoted by a hollow cube icon and present next to the Share button. Then, tap on the “Viewin AR” option.

4. When you press the “View in AR” option for the first time, the app will ask permission to access your Camera. Once the permission pop-up comes,tap the “OK” button.

5. Now, Procreate will take a few seconds to scan your environment and load the object. Once it appears, you can interact with it by moving your iPad around it. You cantap and dragthe object to move it and use thepinch gestureto resize the object. You can easily close the AR mode bytapping the “X” buttonin the top left corner.

The is no option to record what you see in the AR mode in Procreate, which is disappointing. So, you can learn how toscreen record on your iPhone and iPadto record 3D objects in the real world. Do remember that 3D objects in AR work best with smooth surfaces. Also, while viewing these 3D objects, make sure to keep the licensing in mind and only take photos of free-to-use objects.

View 3D Models in Real Life Using AR in Procreate

So if you have a compatible iPad, the latest Procreate 5.2 update, and are ready with your artwork, there’s no time to waste. Create some amazing artworks using 3D objects, and don’t forget to share them with our community. If you face any problems while trying out the new 3D painting feature or any other new Procreate features, drop your query in the comments section. Our team will help you out right away.

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