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Document Geek
Community Expert
Community Expert
July 25, 2026
Question

When mapping a raster symbol onto a 3D object, why is it so pixelated?

  • July 25, 2026
  • 6 replies
  • 38 views

I am trying to add a logo onto the surface of a cap I tried the mockup tool, but that only works with vector artwork. I also tried the 3D classic route, where I make the logo into a symbol and map it onto the surface of the hat. But it looks awful. That’s the top image in this screenshot below.

 

I also tried using envelope distort with a clipping path, which turned out very crisp, but it’s much more difficult to get the angles correct. I’d prefer to use the symbol mapping option, but I don’t know why it’s so pixelated.

My document raster effects setting is 300 DPI and I have anti-aliasing checked.

Any advice?

 

    6 replies

    Kurt Gold
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    July 25, 2026


    Can you share a sample Illustrator file that contains one of the awful objects?
     

    Document Geek
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    July 27, 2026
    Monika Gause
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    July 25, 2026

    And the resolution of you pixel image is OK?

    Document Geek
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    July 27, 2026

    Yes, the pixel resolution is great. 

    Monika Gause
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    July 25, 2026

    Is it classic 3D or 3D and materials? 3D and materials try and turn on Raytracing and set up a high quality.

    Document Geek
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    July 25, 2026

    I am using classic 3D. I have never had any success mapping artwork onto 3D materials.