Traditionally, creating 3D text meant opening heavy software, setting up a scene, lighting it, and waiting for a render. Vextrude changes that by running a real-time 3D engine right in your browser.
Whether you need a sleek header for a landing page, a 3D printable nametag, or a GLB asset for an AR experience, the process is streamlined to just a few clicks.
Step 1: Choosing Your Font & Content
Typography is the foundation. In the Content panel (left sidebar), you can type any text you want.
- Standard Fonts: We provide reliable options like Helvetiker, Droid Sans, and Optimer. These are optimized for 3D extrusion.
- Custom Fonts: Want to use your brand's font? Click "Upload File" to load any .TTF or .OTF file from your computer.
Pro Tip: For 3D text, Bold or Black weights usually work best. Thin fonts can become fragile when extruded or 3D printed.
Step 2: Mastering Geometry Settings
The "Geometry" panel (right sidebar) is where the magic happens. Here are the key settings:
- Extrusion Depth: How "thick" your text is. High values (e.g., 10+) create blocky, monumental text. Low values (e.g., 0.5) create flat, card-like text.
- Bevel Thickness: This adds a chamfered edge to your letters. It catches the light and makes the text look realistic rather than like a simple cutout.
- Bevel Size: Controls how wide the bevel spreads across the face of the letter.
Step 3: Materials & Lighting
A 3D model is nothing without light. Use the Material Presets at the top of the viewport to instantly change the vibe:
- Standard: Matte finish, great for clean, modern UI designs.
- Metal: Highly reflective. Use the "Roughness" slider (if available) or rely on the environment map to create chrome or gold effects.
- Neon: Emits light. Perfect for cyberpunk or nightlife aesthetics. Turn on the "Bloom" toggle in View Options to make it glow.
Don't forget to rotate the light source using the Lighting sliders to find the perfect angle that highlights your bevels.
Step 4: Exporting for Your Needs
Once you're happy, it's time to export. Vextrude offers three formats:
GLB
Best for Web & AR. Contains colors and materials in one small file.
OBJ
Universal standard. Use this if you plan to edit the mesh in Blender.
STL
Geometry only. The standard format for 3D printing slicers.