Taking Nomad Sculpt to the Next Level with AI-Generated Textures

3D modeling in Nomad Sculpt just got a major upgrade—thanks to a little help from AI. In this guide, Bryan DeLuca from Maker Build It shows how AI can generate custom textures for stone, metal, leather, and even dragon scales—bringing 3D models to life with stunning, realistic detail.

Using AI to Create Custom Textures

Bryan started by using ChatGPT’s image generation tools to design unique surface textures that could be imported into Nomad Sculpt. The process begins by describing exactly what kind of material you want to emulate.

For example, he asked ChatGPT to “create a stone pattern that could be used as a texture in Nomad Sculpt—make the stone look like flint.” The first result featured scattered pieces of flint, but by refining the request—asking for “one large cohesive piece of flint”—AI generated the perfect texture.

Once satisfied, he saved the image to his computer and repeated the process for other materials:

• Leather: Initially, the texture looked too new. By requesting a “worn, cracked leather with deeper lines,” the AI produced something that looked aged and hand-crafted—perfect for the handle of a medieval weapon.

• Metal: Bryan asked for metal that looked “worn and aged,” resulting in a pockmarked, weathered surface that added realism.

• Dragon Scales: For something more fantasy-inspired, he had AI generate a detailed scale pattern ready to wrap around 3D models.

The key takeaway? Be specific about how you’ll use the texture. Mentioning that the pattern is for Nomad Sculpt helps AI tailor the image correctly.

Importing Textures into Nomad Sculpt

After creating the textures, it’s time to bring them into Nomad Sculpt.

1. Import Textures: Tap Import → Files and select all your saved texture images.

2. Organize Assets: Scroll through your texture library—you’ll see your new materials like leather, flint, metal, and scales ready to go.

Now, open your 3D model. In Bryan’s example, he used a D20 flail design—complete with chains, handles, and a dice head.

Applying AI Textures to Your Model

There are two main ways to apply textures in Nomad Sculpt: brush and stamp.

1. Using the Brush Tool

Select the brush, choose your alpha texture (like leather, stone, or metal), and adjust the falloff to control texture intensity. You can tweak pressure, apply filters, and experiment until it feels right.

2. Using the Stamp Tool

Bryan prefers stamping for more consistent detail. Before stamping, voxel remesh your model to increase resolution—400 usually works well.

He stamped the leather texture onto the handle, creating a rich, tactile grip. Then, he selected the chain elements and applied the metal texture. After remeshing, the results spoke for themselves: the chains began to look truly metallic, with light reflecting off the worn texture.

Mixing and Matching Materials

With the base materials applied, Bryan mixed things up:

• The handle used the leather texture

• The chain links used aged metal

• Decorative panels received dragon scales

• The D20 dice head was finished with the flint texture

Each texture was applied and remeshed at higher resolution for cleaner definition. The result? A fantasy-inspired weapon that looked handcrafted and battle-worn, straight out of a D&D campaign.

The Power of Realistic Texture

The difference was dramatic. When comparing the textured model to an untextured one, the flail with AI-generated details appeared far more realistic and immersive.

These subtle textures transformed flat surfaces into something that looked tangible, with depth and authenticity. Best of all, this process can be applied to any 3D modeling workflow—not just Nomad Sculpt.

By combining AI-generated textures with Nomad Sculpt’s intuitive tools, makers and digital artists can elevate their 3D designs to a professional level—without spending hours hunting for texture packs.

Once saved, these AI textures can be imported into any 3D software, from Blender to ZBrush, opening endless creative possibilities.

As Bryan puts it:

“Tools don’t make the artist. Inspiration does. Every idea you bring to life starts with a little spark—so go make something incredible.”