What is it?
UV mapping is the 3D modeling process of projecting a 2D image to a 3D model’s surface for texture mapping. A 3D model is made into a flat, 2D image so that it can be textured. The rendering computation uses the UV texture coordinates to determine how to paint the three-dimensional surface.
My UV Modelling
I used the Planar and unfold tool to create a mesh around my ship. I have completely unwrapped my ship into a 2D shape. I have found the UV unwrapping easier than I originally expected and was able to get everything done. The only problem I found was it was time consuming.
I also mapped my thrusters as a different object as I think it will be easier to texture as it will be less clustered. As it is a circle, I used Cylindrical tool for the simpler shapes but used the cut tool for the more complex shapes.
Daniel Porter 