How to create a 3D globe icon

[iantresman3]

3D Globe icon

I want to create a 3D globe icon, similar to the one right, as a 3D object but I'm struggling as there are so many options. In my head it's easy:

1. I just create a 2x1 ratio "mesh" consisting of 7 lines (3 horizontal for the equator and tropics, 4 for the lines of longitude 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°).
2. Then I transform it into a sphere.

I think I want a smart object, butGlobe mesh

1. I'm not sure at what point I create it, straight from the background layer?
2. And then drawing the lines is fiddly, should they all be separate layers? Is this why they are smart?
3. And how to transform the mesh into a sphere? 3D > New Mesh from layer(s)? Filter > Distort > Spherize?

A step-through would be much appreciated.

[JJMack · Accepted solution]

Create a document that has a 2:1 aspect ratio.  Fill it with a grid pattern. Use menu 3D new mesh from layer,  Mesh Preset, Sphere.  Use the move tool to rotate the sphere  to the perspective you want.  Flatten the document, crop square and resize fore the size icon you want. Why should the lines be on a separated layer they don't  change position on the sphere that would be a sphere within a sphere two sphere 3d objects.

You can also animate 3D Layers like you can animate smart Object layers. 

[iantresman3]

Thanks for that, very useful. I see you don't start with a smart object. Am I right in thinking that the 3D object is a smart object, and the background layer is effectively a "material" layer that becomes a 3D smart object?

[JJMack]

A 3D layer is a LAYER3D layer.  Is a smart object layer a 3D layer no.

Ther is not background layer you make a Layer3D from it.  New Mesh From Layer