Can UV maps overlap?

[Sherbetlemons]

Well, basically, I\'m making parts with many small identical maps, and wondered whether it was ok to overlap them in the exported .png, or every face had to be separate ? I\'m using blender, btw.

- Thanks

[Tiberion]

If they overlap, then they\'ll be the same color and pattern; you can stack lots of maps on one another if they\'re all supposed to share a single color or texture (if its a precision texture, your placement must also be precise)

If you want to color them separately, then they should not overlap.

[C7Studios]

Overlapping UV maps also prevent you from doing normal mapping and can interfere with some shaders. Unless you really need the space on your texture its best to avoid it and leave at least 4-8 pixels distance between your polygons on the map.

You also have to take into account, that for banners or lettering, the overlapped co-ordinates are often mirrored on the other side. So things will be backwards. You actually have to mirror the UV co-ordinates of the overlapping points to prevent that. It also doesn\'t work well for non symmetrical surfaces. So, if you\'re going to do it. Be sure to be mindful of the potential pitfalls.

[NovaSilisko]

If you have a bunch of identical parts, then it\'s perfectly acceptable.

[Ydoow]

This would have been so nice to know about 3 days ago...