How to Add Text in Paint 3D: 2D and 3D (2026)
Paint 3D gives you two kinds of text. 2D text sits flat on the canvas, which is ideal for captions, memes, and labels. 3D text becomes an object you can rotate and place in depth alongside your 3D models. Both live in the Text tab.
How to add 2D text
- Click the Text tab in the top toolbar.
- Choose 2D text in the side panel.
- Click and drag on the canvas to draw a text box, then type.
- Style it in the side panel: font, size, bold, italic, underline, color, and alignment. Tick Background fill to add a colored box behind the text.
- Click outside the box to place it.
Check before you click away: once placed, 2D text is merged into the canvas and can no longer be edited as text. Undo with Ctrl + Z if you spot a typo.
How to add 3D text
- In the Text tab, choose 3D text.
- Click and drag on the canvas, then type your words.
- Pick a font, size, and color in the side panel.
- Click outside the box. The text becomes a 3D object.
- Select it again to move, resize, or rotate it with the handles, and use 3D view to see it from any angle.
2D text vs 3D text
| 2D text | 3D text | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Captions, memes, labels | Titles, logos, 3D scenes |
| Movable after placing | No | Yes |
| Rotate in 3D | No | Yes |
| Background fill | Yes | No |
Tip: Paint 3D uses every font installed on your PC. Install new fonts in Windows Settings, restart Paint 3D, and they appear in the font list.
FAQ
How do I edit text after placing it in Paint 3D?
2D text can’t be edited once placed, so undo and retype it. 3D text can be moved, resized, and rotated, but to change the words you need to delete it and add new text.
Can I curve text in Paint 3D?
There is no curved-text tool. You can rotate 3D text in any direction, or place it on a curved 3D shape to suggest a curve.