Using 3D Mapping

It is possible to add more than one transformation to the 

same fractal layer, so let s do just that.

G     

Add the 3D Mapping transformation on top of 

Kaleidoscope.

Multiple transformations

The idea of the 3D Mapping transformation is to map the 

fractal layer onto a three dimensional surface. Let s first 

The 

3D Mapping

 transformation

use the default, Plane shape.

As you can see, our kaleidoscopic flower shape has been mapped onto the lower half of the fractal 

and the top half of the image is now black. This gives the effect of a floor extending toward the 

horizon. 

We can make this mapping shift to the top half of the image, to become more of a sky effect, by 

changing one of the transformation parameters. It is not immediately clear which of the parameters 

effects this change, so now is a good time to learn another way to get Help.

G     

Make sure the Fractal Mode tool window is 

visible, and move the mouse cursor over the 

different parameters for the 3D Mapping 

transformation.

The tool window will display a help text for the 

parameter currently under the mouse cursor. 

In this case, a little investigation tells us that the 

parameter we need to change in order to make our 

fractal appear in the "sky" is the Y Translation 

parameter. It is currently set to  0.5.

You can also click on the ? button in the 

title bar (in the upper right corner) of 

the Layer Properties tool window and 

G     

If we change that to 0.5, the fractal moves into 

the upper half of the image.

place your cursor over any parameter 

field or transformation setting. When 

you left click, a helpful hint for that 

particular parameter or setting will pop 

up on the screen.

Conscientious formula writers will 

provide helpful hints for their formulas  

parameters.

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