How to texture a PBR 3D model?

To texture a PBR 3D model, you create and apply 5 core PBR texture maps (albedo, metallic, roughness, normal, ambient occlusion) that simulate realistic light interaction with the material. Albedo is the base color (e.g., red for a metal can), metallic controls reflectivity (0 = non-metal, 1 = pure metal), roughness dictates surface smoothness (low = glossy, high = matte), normal adds subtle depth (like wood grain), and ambient occlusion enhances shadows in crevices. Use tools like Substance Painter (ideal for PBR), Blender, or Photoshop to make maps. Assign them to your model’s UVs (unwrapped 2D coordinates) in a 3D software or engine (e.g., Unity). Beginners: Start with Substance Painter’s preset materials—they show how maps work together before you design custom textures.