Your First 3D Scene

Learn how to create and publish your first 3D scene in ShapeBox.

Your First 3D Scene

This guide walks you through creating and publishing your very first 3D scene in ShapeBox from scratch.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have:

  • A ShapeBox account (free or paid)
  • A modern browser (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox recommended)
  • Basic familiarity with the ShapeBox editor interface

Step 1: Create a new project

  1. Log in to your ShapeBox account at app.shapebox.io.
  2. Click New Project in the dashboard.
  3. Choose a template or start with an empty scene.
  4. Give your project a name and click Create.

Step 2: Add objects to the scene

Once the editor opens, you will see a blank 3D viewport.

  • Use the Object Panel on the left to drag primitive shapes (cube, sphere, plane) into the scene.
  • Select an object and use the Transform tools (Move, Rotate, Scale) in the toolbar to position it.
  • Use the Properties Panel on the right to adjust materials, colours, and physics settings.

Step 3: Add lighting

Realistic lighting brings your scene to life.

  1. In the Object Panel, open Lights.
  2. Drag a Directional Light into the scene.
  3. Adjust the angle and intensity in the Properties Panel.
  4. Add an Ambient Light for softer, fill lighting.

Step 4: Preview your scene

Press P or click the Play button in the toolbar to enter preview mode. Use W / A / S / D or arrow keys to navigate. Press Escape to return to editing.

Step 5: Publish

  1. Click Publish in the top-right corner of the editor.
  2. Choose a visibility setting (Public, Unlisted, or Private).
  3. Click Confirm — your scene is now live and accessible via a shareable URL.

Next steps