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Document Geek
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Community Expert
Jul 25, 2026 12:48 PM UTC
Question

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

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
    Jul 25, 2026 7:24 PM UTC


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

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    Document Geek
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    Jul 27, 2026 10:38 AM UTC
    Monika Gause
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    Jul 25, 2026 1:50 PM UTC

    And the resolution of you pixel image is OK?

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    Document Geek
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    Jul 27, 2026 10:36 AM UTC

    Yes, the pixel resolution is great. 

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    Monika Gause
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    Jul 25, 2026 1:41 PM UTC

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

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    Document Geek
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    Jul 25, 2026 1:47 PM UTC

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

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