You can use the Wrap & Emboss tool to map 2D sketch profiles onto cylindrical or conical faces. Unlike standard projection, this method maintains the surface-area dimensions of the original sketch, ensuring that geometry conforms to the curvature of the target body without distortion.
This feature can create a variety of functional and aesthetic elements, including:
- Labels and Branding – Apply precise logos, serial numbers, or text to curved packaging and mechanical components.
- Functional Textures – Create uniform knurling, ergonomic grips, or tread patterns on handles, dials, and wheels.
- Structural Details – Define recesses, grooves, or raised features that follow the exact taper of conical or cylindrical geometry.
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How to use Wrap & Emboss
- Go to Tools > Wrap & Emboss.
For other methods of accessing this tool, visit Accessing tools. - Select the sketch profiles or regions you want to use.
- Select a single cylindrical or conical face as the target.
- Use the on-screen gizmo or the history settings to adjust the position and depth.
- To finish, select Done.
Wrap & Emboss vs Project
Choosing between the Wrap & Emboss and Project tools depends on how you want the sketch geometry to interact with the target surface. While both tools move 2D sketches onto 3D bodies, they employ different geometric calculations that affect the final proportions of your design:
- Wrap & Emboss – Maps the sketch by "wrapping" it around the curvature. This method keeps the dimensions of your sketch the same and prevents the geometry from looking stretched.
- Project – Casts the sketch onto a face along a linear vector. On curved surfaces, this results in distortion as the sketch geometry is stretched to meet the face at varying angles.
History settings
To modify a Wrap & Emboss operation, locate the step in the history tree and adjust the following parameters:
- Items to Wrap – The specific sketch profiles or regions used in the operation.
- Face to Wrap Onto – The target cylindrical or conical surface.
- Emboss – The numerical value for the depth or height. Positive values create a raised surface; negative values create an engraving.
- Rotation – Rotates the sketch profiles around their own center point without changing their position on the face.
- Center – The origin point on the target surface used to align the sketch.