🖌️ MagicaVoxel is a simple and user-friendly application designed to create 3D voxel art. This form of digital art involves building designs with small cubes or “voxels,” much like digital building blocks. These blocks can be stacked, arranged, and coloured to form models of various shapes and sizes. MagicaVoxel has gained popularity due to its simple interface and the creative freedom it offers, making it a great starting point for children interested in 3D design.
This article will guide you through the steps to install MagicaVoxel on Windows and Mac and how to export your creations in `.obj` format, making them compatible with other 3D applications.
How to Install MagicaVoxel on Windows and Mac
Installing MagicaVoxel is straightforward on Windows but has specific steps for Mac. Follow the instructions below:
For Windows:
- Download: Visit the official MagicaVoxel website at https://ephtracy.github.io/. Download the latest version for Windows as a `.zip` file.
- Unzip the File: In your Downloads folder, right-click the `.zip` file and select Extract All.
- Open the Folder: After extracting, open the new folder to locate the application file named `MagicaVoxel.exe`.
- Launch the Application: Double-click `MagicaVoxel.exe` to open the program—no additional installation steps are needed.
For Mac:
- Download: Visit the official MagicaVoxel website and download the Mac version as a `.zip` file.
- Extract the File: Open your Downloads folder and double-click the `.zip` file to extract it.
- Move to Applications: Drag the MagicaVoxel app into your Applications folder for easy access.
- Open the App with Permissions: Right-click the app and select Open to bypass macOS’s initial block on running apps from the internet. If prompted, open System Preferences > Security & Privacy and select Open Anyway.
- Fix Blank Screen Issue: If a blank screen appears, drag the `MagicaVoxel.app` file outside its folder, then place it back inside. This should refresh the app and allow it to run smoothly.
Exporting Your Creation to .obj Format
📁 Once you have created a design in MagicaVoxel, you may want to share or refine it in other applications for fine-tuning or 3D printing. Exporting your creation as a `.obj` file enables compatibility with other 3D modelling software or game engines. Follow these steps to export:
- Export Menu: At the lower right part of the app, click on the Export menu (collapsed by default).
- Select `.obj` Format: In the export options, choose `.obj` as the file format.
- Save Your File: Choose a location on your computer to save the exported file.
- Name the File and Confirm: Name the file, then confirm the export.
By following these steps, you can set up and use MagicaVoxel on both Windows and Mac, ensuring a smooth and accessible experience in 3D voxel art creation.