Mapping Coordinates and the Unwrapped UVs Attribute
Mapping coordinates define how textures are oriented on a 3D model. The Unwrapped UVs attribute describes key characteristics of a model’s mapping, including:
Whether the mapping has been unwrapped
Whether the UVs are overlapping or non-overlapping
If your 3D model meets these characteristics, you can set the Unwrapped UVs attribute to Yes.
About Mapping
The model specification section contains two fields: UV Mapped and Unwrapped UVs.
UV Mapped indicates that some form of UV mapping is applied to the model, allowing it to render textures without errors.
Unwrapped UVs indicates that a more advanced mapping method has been used.
Mapping coordinates can be set up in different ways:
Simple automatic mapping – Methods such as planar, cylindrical, or box mapping.
Unwrapped mapping with overlapping UVs – Coordinates are laid flat for multiple textures, but UVs overlap.
Unwrapped mapping without overlapping UVs – Coordinates are laid flat for multiple textures, and UVs do not overlap.
Unwrapped mapping with a single texture – The entire object is mapped with one texture, and UVs do not overlap.
If your model uses one of the last two methods, it qualifies for a "Yes" on the Unwrapped UVs attribute.
For models with a mix of mapping types—some objects with Unwrapped UVs and others with simple or no UVs—the attribute is categorized as "Mixed."
Unwrapped UVs in Existing Models
Because the UV Mapped and Unwrapped UVs attributes were relatively new when we began displaying this information, many of the older 3D models on TurboSquid have no value set for them. When no value is assigned, the attribute appears as 'Unknown' in the full preview. This is neither a positive nor a negative designation; it simply indicates that the value is not available for that particular 3D model.
If a model has Unwrapped UVs, you can add a preview image of the unwrapped layout to help customers understand the UV setup. Additionally, a checker map image can show texture distribution and highlight potential UV stretching.
Why Was This Attribute Added?
UV mapping is complex and can sometimes be used as a reason for a customer return. Our goal is to reduce unnecessary returns by giving buyers the information they need upfront.
Customers often want to know:
Can they apply different textures effectively?
Can they confidently use the model in software like Mudbox, ZBrush, or Photoshop Extended?
We've learned that no UVs or overlapping UVs could cause issues, especially in workflows involving Mudbox. After reviewing various models in our library, we discovered that some do not meet these criteria.
While simple mapping or overlapping UVs may not cause issues for every customer, some buyers specifically look for Unwrapped UVs before purchasing. Production artists may sometimes take shortcuts to speed up their work, but for stock 3D models, clear mapping is essential and may help limit some returns.
By providing this attribute, we help customers make informed decisions. If they need a model that renders as-is, this field may not matter to them. However, if they plan to customize the model, the Unwrapped UVs attribute can help ensure they know whether the UV mapping will support their workflow.