Create 3D Rotation Effects in LibreOffice Draw

Transforming flat 2D shapes into dynamic, three-dimensional graphics is a straightforward process in LibreOffice Draw. This guide explains how to convert standard vector shapes into 3D objects, apply custom X, Y, and Z axis rotations, adjust perspective, and use the built-in 3D Effects panel to achieve realistic depth and lighting.

Step 1: Draw and Convert Your 2D Shape

  1. Open LibreOffice Draw and select any shape from the Drawing toolbar (such as a rectangle, ellipse, or custom polygon).
  2. Click and drag on the canvas to draw your shape.
  3. Right-click the shape, navigate to Convert, and choose To 3D.
  4. The flat shape will instantly transform into an extruded 3D object with default depth and lighting.

Step 2: Open the 3D Effects Panel

To gain full control over rotation angles and perspective:

  1. Select the newly converted 3D shape.
  2. Go to the top menu and select Tools > 3D Effects (or right-click the shape and select 3D Effects).
  3. The 3D Effects floating dialog will appear on your screen.

Step 3: Configure 3D Rotation

  1. In the 3D Effects window, click the Geometry icon (represented by a cylinder).
  2. Locate the Rotation angle fields for the X, Y, and Z axes:
    • X-Axis: Tilts the object forward or backward.
    • Y-Axis: Turns the object left or right.
    • Z-Axis: Rotates the object clockwise or counterclockwise.
  3. Enter your desired degree values or use the interactive rotation preview sphere in the top-left corner of the dialog.
  4. Click the Assign button (the checkmark icon in the top right of the 3D Effects panel) to apply the rotation to the selected shape.

Step 4: Adjust Perspective and Depth

  1. Still inside the Geometry tab, adjust the Depth value to control how thick the extrusion appears.
  2. In the Perspective section, switch from parallel projection to perspective to add realistic vanishing-point depth.
  3. Click Assign to update the visual changes.

Step 5: Fine-Tune Lighting and Material

  1. Click the Illumination tab (lightbulb icon) to reposition light sources, change light colors, or add ambient lighting to enhance the 3D effect.
  2. Click the Material tab to adjust surface properties like matte, metal, or plastic finishes.
  3. Click Assign once more to finalize your changes, then close the 3D Effects panel.

Alternative Method: Create a 3D Lathe Object

If you want to rotate a 2D profile around a central axis to create a symmetrical 3D object (such as a vase, bowl, or sphere):

  1. Draw a 2D half-profile using the Curve or Polygon tool.
  2. Right-click the shape, select Convert, and choose To 3D Rotation Object.
  3. Use the 3D Effects dialog to adjust the segment count, rotation angle limit (up to 360 degrees), and lighting.