Microsoft Corp. launched 3D for its iconic Paint app at its Windows 10 event last week. The new Paint 3D forms part of the Windows 10 Creators Update, a free update that will be available in Spring 2017.

If you are eager to start creating 3D objects in Paint 3D you don’t have to wait until next year. Microsoft has released a Paint 3D Preview, which you can start using now, but you will need to be part of the Windows Insider Program.

We look at how you can sign up for the Windows Insider Program and get access to Paint 3D as well as the features you will get to enjoy in the upgraded app.

Get access to Paint 3D Preview

Step 1: Join the Windows Insider Program

If you haven’t already signed up for the Windows Insider Program you will need to do so to get access to Paint 3D.

Note: You will need to be running Windows 10 on your PC and have a Microsoft account set to the U.S., U.K., Canada English, Australia or New Zealand in order to explore 3D in Windows.

Head over to Microsoft’s Windows Insider website, sign in with your Microsoft account and click “Get Started.”

Step 2: Windows 10 Anniversary Update

Make sure you have downloaded the Windows 10 Anniversary Update.

Step 3: Update your PC

Go to Settings > Update & security > Windows Insider Program > click “Get Started” and follow the on-screen prompts.

Step 4: Select your Insider level

To get access to Paint 3D Preview you will need to choose between the Slow or Fast ring. The Slow ring is ideal for users you merely want to check out new features like Paint 3D while the Fast ring is reserved for more advanced users who want to check out the latest changes and are happy dealing with any software bugs that arise.

Step 5: Compatibility check

A compatibility check will run in the background and register your PC with Microsoft’s build release system.

Step 6: Process complete

Once the steps are completed, your PC will now be targeted to receive Insider Preview builds.

Note: This could take up to 24 hours to happen.

Step 7: Download Paint 3D Preview

Once your PC has completed the update, you can head over to the Windows Store and download the Paint 3D Preview.

Paint 3D features

Creating 3D creations is made easy with Paint 3D with the ability to easily change a 2D image into a 3D object. There are also a variety of brushes, including transparent watercolor or oil brushes, to easily add a splash of color to your 3D object.

Join the Remix3D.com Community

With Paint 3D you can join the Remix3D.com Community and share your 3D creations with other creators. The Remix3D.com’s catalog also offers a variety of 3D art that you can edit and customize.  

Add texture to your 3D object

Paint 3D contains various textures and materials, including sparkling gold, stained hardwood, or soft grass, allowing you to add another dimension to your 3D object.

3D Doodle

3D Doodle takes your random doodles to the next level with the ability to rotate your 3D drawings and view them from all angles.

3D stickers

You can personalize your 3D object by adding 3D stickers, which automatically contour to fit 3D objects or add your own photos.

Sources: Microsoft; Windows Blog

Images via Microsoft