how to prepare an object for 3d scanning
So you’ve got a 3D scanner or are thinking about getting one. Great! But before you can scan your first object, there’s one important step that’s easy to overlook: preparation.
Preparing an object properly can be the difference between a clean, usable 3D model and a messy one that’s hard to work with. Don’t worry though it doesn’t have to be difficult. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get your object ready for a successful scan.
If you’re still wondering what 3D scanning is all about, check out our post:What is a 3D scanner? for a simple introduction. Or if you're looking to pick out the right model, you'll love check out Which 3D scanner is right for you?
You can also explore all available scanners here.
Why does preparation matter?
You might think you can just place an object in front of the scanner and hit "go." And sometimes, that works. But the truth is that most scans need at least a little bit of preparation.
Poor lighting, tricky materials, or unstable positioning can lead to incomplete scans, noisy data, or missing areas. Spending just a few extra minutes setting things up the right way will save you a lot of time later when you want to edit or print your model.
Step 1: Choose the right object
Not all objects are equally easy to scan. Start with something medium-sized, stable, and matte. Avoid anything too shiny, transparent or soft for your first scan.
Some good things to begin scanning could be:
- Figurines or maybe a toy
- Fruits, maybe an apple or a pear
- Sculptures or clay figures
Try to pick something with visible details but without deep holes, reflective surfaces or very thin elements. If the object has a flat base, even better, it’ll be easier to place and scan.
Want to know more about what you can use a 3D scanner for? Head over to our intro post on scanners where we cover the basics.
Step 2: Clean the object
Dust, fingerprints, or greasy spots can mess with your scan. Use a clean cloth to gently wipe the object before scanning. If it's especially dirty, you can wash and dry it first, but avoid harsh cleaning methods that might damage the surface.
Even small specks of dust can confuse the scanner’s sensors, so a quick wipe can go a long way.
Step 3: Stabilise the object
A wobbly object will create blurry scans. Place your object on a flat, stable surface. Some scanners come with turntables that automatically rotate the object while scanning. If yours doesn’t, you’ll need to move around it manually or reposition the item between scans.
If the object is lightweight or prone to tipping over, use a small amount of removable putty or tape to keep it in place.
Also, try to avoid backgrounds with too much texture or movement. A plain surface can help the scanner focus only on the object.
Step 4: Improve the surface if needed
This is where many new users get stuck. Shiny, dark, or clear objects can be difficult to scan. The scanner’s sensors have trouble picking up light reflections or passing through transparent surfaces.
If your object falls into one of these tricky categories, there’s a simple solution: scanning spray.
Scanning sprays coat the object with a temporary matte layer that makes it easier to capture. Some sprays dissolve after a few hours, while others need to be wiped off. Just make sure it’s safe for the material you’re scanning.
Other times, you might add small markers or stickers to help the scanner track the object’s shape. This is especially useful with handheld scanners that need reference points as you move.
Some scanners work better with challenging materials than others. If you’re curious about the differences between models, check out our guide to choosing a 3D scanner.
Step 5: Check the lighting
Most scanners don’t need strong lighting, but bad lighting can still affect your results. Try to scan in a room with even, neutral lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, harsh shadows, or flickering light sources.
If you’re using a scanner that relies on a camera, natural light can sometimes be enough. But if you're working in the evening or indoors, make sure your workspace is well lit and consistent.
Step 6: Set the right distance
Every scanner has an ideal working range, which is the distance between the device and the object. If you’re too close, the scan might lose parts of the shape. If you’re too far, it might lose detail.
Most scanning software will show you if you’re too close or too far away. Pay attention to these indicators as you scan.
Some scanners, especially handheld ones, let you move around the object to capture all sides. In that case, try to keep the same distance and speed as you move. A steady hand helps a lot.
Step 7: Rotate or reposition as needed
It’s rare that you’ll capture a full object in one go. If your scanner doesn’t rotate the item automatically, you’ll need to scan multiple angles.
Start with one side, then flip or rotate the object and scan the next. The scanning software will usually help you align the scans into one complete model. If your scanner uses tracking markers, make sure they stay in view throughout.
Some models also support auto-merging, where the software automatically combines the different scans into a full 3D shape. But this only works well when the object is stable and the scans overlap correctly.
Bonus tip: Do a practice run
It’s totally fine to do a test scan before going all in. Try a quick pass over the object, then review the result in your software. Look for missing areas or weird shapes. If everything looks good, great! If not, you can adjust lighting, clean the object again, or try a new angle.
Scanning is a skill like any other. You’ll get better with time.
Ready to start scanning?
Getting good results from a 3D scanner doesn’t have to be complicated. Most of the time, it’s about a little preparation and understanding what your scanner needs.
With a little practice, scanning will feel as natural as printing. And once you get comfortable, you’ll be ready to move on to picking the right scanner for your specific goals and needs.
If you're still not sure what type of scanner suits your work best, check out our post about Which 3D scanner is right for you.
And remember, you can always explore our full selection of 3D scanners here to find something that matches your budget, skill level, and ambitions.