Information about source files for 3d models, and why it’s useful to have them.

What is a Source File?

A source file is the character model authored in a 3D Software. For example, a .blend file for Blender or a .maya file for Maya.

Ideally, your source file is the starting-point where all exports of your model come from:

In the above diagram you can see an ideal workflow.

What you want to avoid is situations where you export in the opposite direction:

In these situations data loss may occur, and in some cases it may require clean-up or repair of your character model to make it look right.

Try to Obtain a Source File

You may be in a situation where you have an avatar in one format, but don’t have the source file. Perhaps you purchased or commissioned an avatar and did not receive the source.

The first thing to do is try to get access to the source file.

  • The artist may be able to provide it for you.
  • The artist may not provide it, but may be able to export a new .fbx for you.

If you can do this you will avoid most of your problems. If not, you need to do some legwork.

Note that an .fbx file is not a source file. FBX is used to export/import between applications.


However, there are situations where you may purchase a character model, receive a .fbx file, and it contains all data for the model. In this case, you can import it into 3D Software to make a new source file to work from.

Should You Make a New Source File?

Let’s say you aren’t able to access your character model’s source file.

In this case, there are 2 paths you can take:

  1. Get the file you have into a 3D Software (e.g. Blender), treat is as a new source file, and work from there.
  2. Get the file you have into FBX format, and import directly into Unreal Editor.

The first option is recommended. This gives you the most control over your model to get the best results, and it will let you make additions later. You’ll need to know some basic 3D art skills to navigate it.

Furthermore, even if you’re not an artist, it’s useful to have your a source file for your avatar in case you work with an artist in the future. Many avatar makers work in Blender especially, and having a .blend file of your avatar will make it easier to have work done to it.

What if I Don’t Want to Deal With a Source File?

If you do not have 3D art experience or just need to get something working into Unreal, it’s possible just get ahold of a .fbx file and forgo making a source file.

Just know that this will make it difficult to fix problems or make changes later.

If you work with an artist to make changes to your avatar, consider asking them to provide a source file for your avatar for future use (.e.g. ask for the .blend file).