Texturing and Naming the Layers of the Earth: Step-by-Step Guide

In today’s digital classrooms, 3D modeling is changing how teachers and students understand complex science topics. One of the most exciting uses of 3D design is creating visual models of things we can’t see easily—like the layers inside the Earth. Instead of looking at flat drawings, students can now explore these layers in 3D with easy-to-use tools like SelfCAD.

This article provides a comprehensive and straightforward guide to help teachers and students utilize SelfCAD to create a 3D model of the Earth’s layers. It demonstrates how to add colors, textures, and labels, making the model easy to understand and ideal for teaching. Whether you are a teacher preparing a class or a student working on a project, this guide will help you create a meaningful and engaging learning experience.

Why Teach Earth’s Layers Using 3D Models?

Learning about the Earth’s layers is a key part of science education. However, many students struggle to imagine how the layers actually look because they are hidden deep underground. Using a 3D model helps in many ways:

• Better understanding: Students can turn the model around and see each layer from all sides.

• Interactive learning: Students can build the model themselves, which helps them learn more deeply.

• Stronger memory: When students build or explore a 3D model, they remember it better.

• Fun learning: Creating something in 3D is more engaging than simply reading a textbook.

Using 3D models can make lessons more interesting and help students become more curious about science.

Steps of Creating the Layers of the Earth in SelfCAD

In this guide, we explore how to create the layers of the Earth from simple 3D shapes, texture them, and label them using text generators. You can check out the interactive tutorial to learn how to do it. To begin, start by launching SelfCAD and open the workspace:

The next step is to create the basic shape. Activate the cube from the 3D Shapes:

Set the Height of the cube to 110 then tick the check mark to finalize the cube:

On the right side panel, activate the Polygon Selection and use it to select the top face of the cube. Click on the Materials button and set the settings to Textures. On the Textures category, set it to Custom:

Click Add Image Button to add image. Click the grass and then tick the check mark to finalize materials:

Select all the side ways faces of the cube and click the Materials button on the right side panel as shown below:

Set the material settings to Textures. On the Textures category, set it to Custom. Click Add Image Button to add image. Click the texture and then tick the check mark to finalize materials:

Select the remaining bottom face:

From the right side, click on the Color picker. Click on the Grey button to select the grey color and click Ok to confirm the color:

The next step is to put vegetation on the surface of the earth. From the top toolbar, click Import to import the vegetation:

There you go, the vegetation is positioned well:

The next step is labeling the layers. From the Generators category, select the Text generator:

The first label is Humus Topsoil. Set the Height to 11 and set the Position Y to 93 and Z to 46:

Tick the check mark to finalize the text. The next label is the Subsoil. On the text box, type in subsoil, set the Height to 11 and set the Position Y to 69 and Z to 46:

Tick the check mark to finalize the text. On the text box, type in Weathered rock fragments as the next label, set the Height to 8 and set the Position Y to 38 and Z to 46:

Tick the check mark to finalize the text. On the text box again, type in Bedrock as the next label, set the Height to 11 and set the Position Y to 11 and Z to 46:

Tick the check mark to finalize the text. Select all the texts that you have made, and on the top toolbar, select Group on the Edit menu:

On the right side panel, click on the Color picker and select the White button and click ok to confirm the color:

Select all the objects on the workspace, and from the Edit menu on the top toolbar, select Union:

There you go, the layers of the earth is ready:

3D models of Earth's layers are really helpful. They make it easier for students to learn about Earth’s structure, help scientists study and predict geological events, and improve how we share information about our planet. These models make understanding and exploring Earth’s inner workings simpler and more engaging. With SelfCAD, you can always use it as an instructional material for any subject. 

Using the Model in the Classroom

Here are fun and educational ways to use your model:

• Demonstration: Use it during lessons to show layer structure. Rotate the model, zoom in on layers, or highlight them one by one while explaining their characteristics.

• Group Activity: Let students build their own models in teams. Assign each student or pair a layer to create, color, and label. Then combine them as a class project.

• Labeling Practice: Have students place 3D text labels or use sticky notes on printed models to identify different layers. This reinforces vocabulary and structure.

• Testing and Quizzes: Pass around the model and ask students to name the layers. For a written test, provide screenshots and ask them to match names to the layers.

• Creative Projects: Encourage students to design imaginary planets with different layers. Let them use SelfCAD to shape and color their own models, then present their planets to the class.

You can also use the model digitally in a presentation. Take screenshots or record short videos of the model spinning or sliced open to use in slideshows or online teaching platforms. If your school has a projector, display the model live from SelfCAD to allow interactive exploration during lessons.

For tactile learners, having a printed model they can hold is especially helpful. Ask students to describe how each layer feels (if textured) or how thick it looks. This makes abstract geological concepts much more concrete.

Another idea is to organize a "science exhibition" where students showcase their models and explain each part to visitors. This builds communication skills and deepens understanding.

With these engaging strategies, your SelfCAD Earth model becomes much more than a project—it becomes a teaching tool, a collaborative exercise, and a creative platform all in one.