UV Mapping

Texture Coordinates (UV Mapping)

Definition

Texture coordinates () map points on a texture image to points on a 3D model. They range from on both axes, defining how the texture wraps around the object.

Info

Texture coordinates are assigned to each vertex on the 3D model. By mapping these coordinates to specific points on a texture image, the model can display the image in a way that fits its geometry.

Intuition for Texture Coordinates

Imagine laying a grid (the texture space) over a photo. Each point on this grid, defined by values, is then applied to specific points on your 3D model. Think of it as “wrapping” the texture around the model like gift wrap.

Repeating Textures

Textures can repeat over a surface by using and values greater than 1.

Info

When texture coordinates exceed , the integer part is discarded, allowing the texture to “tile” over the surface continuously.

Intuitive Explanation for Texture Tiling

If you imagine the texture as a wallpaper pattern, repeating the texture simply “tiles” the pattern across the surface. Coordinates over 1.0 help “wrap” the wallpaper multiple times over a large surface area.