Normal Map & PBR Texture Learning Center
In-depth guides to help you understand and master PBR texture workflows. Learn how normal maps, roughness, metallic, AO, and height maps work together, how to build seamless tileable textures for Unity, Unreal Engine, and Blender, and how to generate transparent PNGs for signatures, logos, and VFX. All 16 tutorials are written by 3D texturing practitioners and updated regularly.
PBR Workflow Maps
What is an Ambient Occlusion (AO) Map? The Ultimate PBR Guide
Master Ambient Occlusion (AO) maps in 3D texturing. Learn how AO maps add realistic soft shadows, how they differ from Global Illumination, and how to generate them online.
Height Map vs Displacement Map vs Normal Map: Combined Guide
Confused by Height Maps, Displacement Maps, and Normal Maps? Learn the differences, when to use each, and how they affect 3D geometry and silhouettes.
What is a Normal Map? - PBR Texture Guide
Learn what a Normal Map is, how it works in 3D rendering, and the difference between Normal Maps and Height Maps (Displacement).
Roughness Maps vs. Gloss Maps: The PBR Guide
Understand the difference between Roughness Maps and Glossiness Maps in PBR texturing. Learn how they work, how to convert them, and why they matter.
Practical Tutorials
How to Preview PBR Materials Online (3D Viewport Guide)
Learn how to use our online 3D viewport to thoroughly inspect, tune, and test your generated PBR textures under custom HDRI lighting before downloading.
Convert Albedo or Diffuse to Normal Map Online
A complete step-by-step tutorial on converting a flat 2D albedo or diffuse texture into a 3D normal map for realistic lighting in Unity, UE5, and Blender.
How to Use Normal Maps in Unity and Unreal Engine 5
A complete step-by-step tutorial on importing, configuring, and applying normal maps in Unity's standard shader and Unreal Engine 5's material editor.
How to Create a Normal Map in Photoshop (Step-by-Step Guide)
Learn how to generate Normal Maps using Adobe Photoshop's built-in 3D filter. A complete step-by-step tutorial with screenshots for Windows users.
How to Create Normal Maps from Photos Online: The Ultimate Guide
Learn how to create high-quality Normal Maps from photos using free online tools. A step-by-step guide for 3D artists, game developers, and designers.
Metallic Map Guide — Understanding Metal vs Non-Metal in PBR Rendering
A comprehensive guide to Metallic Maps in PBR workflows. Learn how to define metal and non-metal surfaces, avoid common mistakes, and create physically accurate materials for Unity, Unreal Engine, and Blender.
Seamless & Tileable Textures
What is a Tileable Texture? A Complete Guide for 3D Artists
Discover what tileable textures are, why they are essential for 3D rendering and game development, and how to create seamless repeating patterns without visible grid lines.
How to Make Any Image a Seamless Texture Online for 3D & Games
Follow this guide to convert any image or photo into a perfectly tiled seamless texture for your 3D models or game engines without Photoshop.
How to Create Seamless Tileable Textures Online
A complete guide to turning any photo or non-repeating image into a perfectly tileable, seamless texture for 3D modeling and rendering.
Transparent PNG & Background Removal
How to Remove Black Background from Signature or Logo Online
A fast, free online tool to remove solid black backgrounds from scanned signatures, logos, and graphics to create clean, transparent PNG files.
How to Remove a White Background from a Signature or Logo Online
A free, browser-based tool to instantly remove white paper backgrounds from scanned handwritten signatures, logos, and line art, creating perfectly anti-aliased transparent PNGs.
How to Remove Black Backgrounds: Transparent PNG Maker Guide
A complete guide on instantly removing black backgrounds from VFX, fire, glows, and sprite sheets to create clean, transparent PNGs online.