We’ve all been there—you do a cool 3D scan of a small statue or object, only to realize that it’s missing that one crucial thing: texture. Sure, the shape is accurate, but it just looks… flat. Today, we’re going to fix that. I’ll show you how to bring your 3D scans to life by adding realistic surface detail using Nomad Sculpt, one of the best iPad sculpting apps around.
This walkthrough uses an adorable, slightly worn little elephant statue I scanned using the Creality Ferret Pro, but the technique works for almost any scanned object. Whether you’re creating props, D&D miniatures, or printable art, this step will make your models pop.
Why Add Texture to a 3D Scan?
A raw 3D scan often captures the basic geometry, but not the tactile feel—the wrinkles, pores, scales, or surface patterns that give objects character. Adding texture means:
Improved realism for prints or renders
Better results in resin and FDM printing, especially with light and shadows
More flexibility when painting or finishing your 3D print
Tools You’ll Need
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3D scanned model – We used the Creality Ferret Pro
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Nomad Sculpt – iPad or Android tablet app
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Alpha texture (e.g. elephant skin) – Free or royalty-free sources like Canva, Creative Commons, or paid marketplaces
💡 If you’re using Canva, make sure you have a Pro account or proper license for your textures.
Step-by-Step: Adding Texture in Nomad Sculpt
1. Import Your 3D Scan
Open Nomad Sculpt and import your model. In this case, our elephant scan looked a little flat—solid shape, but no skin detail.
2. Open the Stamp Tool
Tap the stamp tool in Nomad Sculpt. This is where you’ll add your alpha texture.
3. Add Your Texture (Alpha)
Load in your elephant skin texture. This acts like a rubber stamp you can press into the mesh. You’ll find public domain textures on Wikipedia or high-quality ones on Canva or texture sites like Texture Haven or Poliigon.
4. Stamp the Texture
Use the stamp tool to apply the texture directly onto your model. Reduce the intensity if the pattern is too strong—this is more art than science, so play around until it looks right.
5. Use the Brush Tool for Detailing
The brush tool lets you paint the texture onto the surface using the same alpha. Adjust the falloff to change how soft or sharp the details appear.
6. Add Definition
Refine areas like the eyes, tusks, ears, and creases. You don’t need extreme detail—just enough to give life to your model.
Before & After: The Difference Texture Makes
Once we added the skin texture and cleaned up the details, we exported and printed the elephant. The final result? A model that looks hand-sculpted. Wrinkles in the right places, tactile definition, and personality. It’s night-and-day compared to the flat 3D scan.
Bonus Tips
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Use MatCap render view to better see fine detail as you sculpt.
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Save different versions as you go—you can always undo, but backups are your friend.
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Try this on fantasy props, miniatures, or cosplay gear for insane detail.
Adding real texture to a 3D scan isn’t just for pros—Nomad Sculpt makes it beginner-friendly. Whether you’re printing with resin or FDM, textured models just look better and feel more complete. If you’re working on props, toys, terrain, or art prints, this step can take your project from “neat” to “wow.”
Got questions about the process? Drop them in the comments below—I read every one.