How to Unfold or Flatten Objects in the Blender 3D Modeling Program

Unfolding a 3D mesh flattens it into a series of polygons called a net. The Blender modeling program includes a script, Unfolder, that automates the unfolding process. The basic method of using Unfolder requires only a single click, but may fail with complicated models. In such cases, manual tweaking will improve the result. After unfolding, you can use the flattened diagram to create textures, build paper models or just check your work.

Instructions

1. Basic Usage

   • 1
     Open Blender, and load the project with the object that requires unfolding.
   • 2
     Open the "Mesh" menu in the Scripts window, and pick "Unfold."
   • 3
     Select the entire mesh in the 3D view, and click "Unfold."
   • 4
     Check the result to ensure accuracy. If errors or overlaps occur, you can redo the operation to try again or press "Search" to attempt to find a simple net. If neither method works, attempt one or both of the advanced techniques.
   • 5
     Press "Save" to export the net to an SVG file.

   Advanced Techniques

   • 1
     Designate the order for Unfolder to run by coloring your mesh with vertex paint. Pick "Vertex Paint" from the Paint menu, and color in your mesh. Unfolder will run from the darkest areas to the lightest areas.
   • 2
     Mark seams to provide stopping boundaries for Unfolder. Switch to edit mode, and pick edge select mode. Press "Ctrl" and "E," and then click "Mark Seam" to set a seam. Seams will designate edges on the mesh as cut points on the net.
   • 3
     Open the Unfolder options, and select "Brightest" to enable ordering by vertex paint. Run Unfolder again and check how your edits altered the net. Adjust as necessary until the net unfolds correctly.