PDF download Download Article
A user-friendly guide to using 3D shapes and models in Word
PDF download Download Article

In Microsoft Word, you can create charts and graphs, add media, and draw and format shapes. You can make 3D objects from an online library, your own local files, or from 2D drawings. This wikiHow will show you how to create a 3D object in Microsoft Word using your Windows or Mac computer.

Making and Using 3D Shapes in Word

To create a 3D object in Word, click the Insert tab and click 3D Models. Select a model from Microsoft's online library, and then click Insert. Adjust the position by dragging the center icon with your mouse.

Method 1
Method 1 of 4:

Inserting 3D Models

PDF download Download Article
  1. Microsoft Word is available to download on Windows and Mac.
    • You can add 3D objects from your own file or from Microsoft's online library.
  2. This is in the top toolbar.
    Advertisement
  3. You can find this in the Illustrations section.[1]
    • This will open Microsoft's online library.
    • If you want to upload an image from your computer, click the down-arrow next to 3D Models and select This Device…. Click your file, and then click Insert.
  4. You can enter keywords into the search bar at the top or click one of the listed categories below. Click one or more models to select it.
  5. This will add the 3D model to your Word document.
  6. Use one of the circles on the border to adjust its size.
    • To move its position, click the and drag the two looping arrows icon in the center. The model will rotate and tilt with your mouse. Let go to save its position.
  7. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 4:

Drawing 3D Objects

PDF download Download Article
  1. You can draw 3D objects with the Shapes menu.
  2. This is in the top toolbar.
  3. You can find this in the Illustrations section.
    • Mac users will see a menu of shapes appear on the right side of the screen.
    • Windows users will see a drop-down menu of shapes.
  4. You'll see a cylinder and a cube in the Basic Shapes section.
  5. Click a blank area on the document, and then drag your cursor to the opposite corner. The size will depend on how far and wide you drag.
  6. Click on it to reveal the circles. Click and drag any of the circles to adjust its size.
  7. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 4:

Converting 2D Objects to 3D

PDF download Download Article
  1. You can convert 2D drawing to 3D objects with the Shapes menu.
  2. This is in the top toolbar.
  3. You can find this in the Illustrations section.
    • Mac users will see a menu of shapes appear on the right side of the screen.
    • Windows users will see a drop down menu of shapes.
  4. Select a 2D shape from the list. Click a blank area on the document, and then drag your cursor to the opposite corner. The size will depend on how far and wide you drag.
  5. This will open the Shape Format menu.
  6. You'll see the Format Shape panel on the right.
    • Click the Effects tab.
    • Expand the 3-D Format section.
    • Adjust the size of the Depth.
    • Click the paint bucket icon to change its color.
  7. You'll see the Format Shape panel on the right.
    • Click the Effects tab.
    • Expand the 3-D Rotation section.
    • Adjust the X, Y, and Z rotation.
      • You need to rotate the shape along the X or Y axis to see the depth you are about to add.
  8. Advertisement
Method 4
Method 4 of 4:

Adding 3D Effects to Text and WordArt

PDF download Download Article
  1. You can create 3D text and WordArt with the Format Shape menus.
  2. You can create a textbox or insert WordArt.
    • To add a textbox, click the Insert tab. Click Text Box and enter your text.
    • To add WordArt, click the Insert tab. Click WordArt and select the style you want. Enter your text.
  3. This is the tab at the top.
  4. You can find this in the Shape Styles section.
  5. This is at the very bottom of the drop-down menu.
  6. Click the Effects tab of the right panel.
    • Expand the 3-D Format section.
    • Adjust the size of the Depth.
    • Click the paint bucket icon to change its color.
    • Expand the 3-D Rotation section.
    • Adjust the X, Y, and Z rotation.
  7. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can I divide the cube into 12 x 12 text boxes in each part?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    You have to click the insert button and click INSERT CHART. Then you have to choose the 12 by 12 cube, and you're done!
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement

Video

Tips

  • If you haven't made 3D objects before, it is best to start with a simple shape.
  • You can experiment with coloring and shading in Format Shape > Fill and Format Shape > 3-D Format > Depth and Surface.
Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Name
Please provide your name and last initial
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Advertisement

You Might Also Like

Overline Characters in Microsoft WordA Guide to Overlining Characters in Microsoft Word
Double Space in WordDouble Space in Word
Insert Equations in Microsoft WordInsert Equations in Microsoft Word
Turn a Scanned Document Into Microsoft Word Document2 Easy Ways to Open a Scanned Doc in MS Word
Merge Documents in Microsoft Word Combine Multiple Documents in Microsoft Word
Get Rid of a Horizontal Line in Microsoft Word3 Easy Ways to Delete a Horizontal Line in a Word Document
Create and Install Symbols on Microsoft WordCreate Custom Symbol Characters You Can Use in Word
Draw Lines in Microsoft WordDraw Lines in Microsoft Word
Insert Page Numbers in WordEasily Add Page Numbers to a Word Document on Any Platform
Insert a Check Box in Word Add Check Boxes to Word: 10 Simple Steps
Remove a Blank Page in WordRemove a Blank Page in Word
Add Backgrounds in Word Add Backgrounds in Microsoft Word: Watermarks, Images, & Colors
Insert a Hyperlink in Microsoft Word3 Simple Ways to Insert a Hyperlink in Microsoft Word
Print Avery Labels in Microsoft Word on PC or MacPrint Avery Labels in Microsoft Word on PC or Mac
Advertisement

About This Article

Rain Kengly
Written by:
wikiHow Technology Writer
This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Rain Kengly. Rain Kengly is a wikiHow Technology Writer. As a storytelling enthusiast with a penchant for technology, they hope to create long-lasting connections with readers from all around the globe. Rain graduated from San Francisco State University with a BA in Cinema. This article has been viewed 230,373 times.
How helpful is this?
Co-authors: 21
Updated: April 15, 2024
Views: 230,373
Categories: Microsoft Word
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 230,373 times.

Is this article up to date?

Advertisement