To unwrap a 3D model in a 3D workflow, use UV unwrapping tools (e.g., in Blender or Maya) to flatten the model’s surface into a 2D texture map while minimizing distortion.
First, mark seams—edges where you’d “cut” the model to unfold it (like along a cube’s edges or a character’s joints). Next, run the unwrap function to generate UV islands (flattened sections of the model). Then adjust these islands: avoid overlap, fix stretching, and fit them efficiently in the 2D space so textures apply correctly.
For beginners, start with a simple cube in Blender: Use Ctrl+E to mark seams, press U to unwrap, then select “Pack Islands” to organize UVs neatly without wasted space.