MS Word: Illustrations Group in the Insert Tab to Work with 3D Models

Microsoft Word isn't just about typing—it’s also about visual storytelling. Among the most powerful and underused visual features in Word is the ability to insert 3D Models. Found within the Illustrations Group of the Insert Tab, 3D Models allow users to create documents that are interactive, modern, and visually engaging.

In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn:

• How to access and insert 3D Models

• The difference between local and stock 3D Models

• How to move, rotate, and zoom 3D objects

• Formatting tools in the 3D Model tab

• Common user issues and their fixes

• Real-world applications and best practices

Where to Find 3D Models in Word

Steps:

1. Open Microsoft Word (2019 or Microsoft 365 recommended).

2. Click the Insert Tab in the Ribbon.

3. Go to the Illustrations Group.

4. Click on 3D Models.

   • You’ll get two main options:

     • This Device: Upload your own 3D models (file types: .glb, .fbx, .obj, .3mf).

     • Stock 3D Models: Choose from Microsoft’s curated online collection.

Note: You need to be connected to the internet to access Stock 3D Models.

Categories of 3D Models in Stock Library

Microsoft offers a rich collection of 3D models, including:

• Animals

• Avatars

• Buildings

• Furniture

• Medical

• Science & Technology

• Sports

• Tools

Use the search bar to quickly find relevant 3D content.

Inserting and Positioning 3D Models

Once you insert a 3D model:

• You can click and drag to move it.

• Use the 3D control icon in the center to rotate or pivot the model.

• Drag corners to resize.

• The 3D rotation handle lets you tilt the model along any axis (X, Y, Z).

Zoom and Rotate:

• Click and drag inside the 3D control circle to rotate.

• Use corner handles while holding Shift to zoom proportionally.

• Right-click → Reset 3D Model to return to default view.

3D Model Tab: Tools and Functions

When a 3D model is selected, a new tab appears on the Ribbon called 3D Model (or 3D Model Tools Format).

Group	Tool	Description
3D Model Views	Presets	Predefined angles and poses
	Reset 3D Model	Reverts to original position and size
Arrange	Wrap Text	Controls text flow around the model (e.g., Tight, In Front of Text)
	Align	Align to margins or other objects
	Position	Quick placement on page (e.g., Top Left, Center, Bottom Right)
	Selection Pane	Manage visibility and layering
	Rotate	Flip or rotate in 90-degree increments
Size	Height & Width	Input exact dimensions or drag to resize

Tip: Use Wrap Text → In Front of Text to easily move and overlap the 3D model over content.

Common Issues and Solutions

“3D Models button is grayed out”

Fix: Ensure you're using Word 2019 or Microsoft 365. 3D features are not supported in Word 2016 or earlier.

“Stock 3D Models won’t load”

Fix: Check your internet connection. If you're on a managed device (school/work), your IT admin might have restricted online content access.

“I can’t rotate my 3D model”

Fix: Make sure you’re not using it in a header/footer or content control. Select the object and use the 3D control icon to freely rotate.

“Text overlaps or misaligns with the model”

Fix: Use Wrap Text options like Tight or Square, or adjust the model’s layering with Send to Back.

Practical Use Cases for 3D Models in Word

Scenario	Application
Educational Reports	Insert 3D anatomy models, ecosystems, or geometric shapes
Technical Manuals	Add engine parts, architecture, or tool diagrams
Marketing Material	Showcase product designs or concept art
Science Projects	Use molecules, planets, or 3D charts
Corporate Reports	Enhance presentations with modern visuals

Best Practices for Working with 3D Models

• Use high-resolution monitors for better rendering.

• Don’t overload your document—too many 3D models can slow performance.

• Use Alt Text for accessibility.

• Group 3D models with captions or text boxes for consistency.

• Export your final Word doc to PDF (interactive) to retain 3D visuals.

Conclusion

Microsoft Word’s 3D Models feature—found under the Illustrations Group in the Insert Tab—offers powerful visual capabilities that go beyond basic images. With support for rotation, zooming, layering, and styling, 3D models provide a new dimension to documents that require visual clarity and modern design.

Whether you're an educator, business professional, student, or content creator, incorporating 3D graphics can dramatically improve reader engagement and information delivery.