How to use A23D 3D Models in CLO3D

This guide explains how to import 3D models downloaded from A23D into CLO3D for garment design, fitting, trim placement, and fashion visualization.

Note: CLO supports FBX and OBJ import/export. Use FBX when you need mesh, material, joint, animation, or camera data. Use OBJ when you specifically need CLO's OBJ workflow for avatars, related sources, or background props.

1. Download and Extract the Model

Sign in to your A23D account.
Browse to the asset you wish to use.
In the Software dropdown on the asset page, select CLO3D.

A23D automatically delivers the model in the format best suited to CLO3D (.fbx) - no manual format selection required. Keep the .fbx file and texture files together because the model references its dependent files.

Click Download and save the .zip to a known location on your computer.
Extract (unzip) the archive to access the model file and accompanying texture folder.

2. Import the A23D Model

Open CLO3D.
Go to File > Import > FBX to open the asset as a new import, or File > Import (Add) > FBX to add it to the current scene.
Select the downloaded A23D .fbx file and click Open.
In the Import FBX dialog, set the options:

Load Type: choose open/import or add, depending on whether this is a new scene or an addition to the current scene.
Object Type: choose Avatar for body/mannequin geometry or Trim for rigid accessories, hardware, buttons, buckles, zippers, and other garment details.
Scale: choose the unit or enter a specific value so the model arrives at real-world size.
Axis Conversion: adjust if the model imports facing the wrong direction.
Animation / Camera: enable only when the FBX actually contains animation or camera data you need in CLO.

Click OK. CLO imports the FBX based on the selected settings.

3. Use the Model as an Avatar

Use this method when importing a body, mannequin, or character mesh that garments will drape against.

In the Import FBX dialog, set Object Type to Avatar.
Confirm the import scale before clicking OK. A garment fit workflow depends on accurate body dimensions, so avoid manual scaling after import unless you are correcting a known unit mismatch.
Once imported, arrange garment patterns around the avatar and run simulation.
If the avatar is skinned, avoid relying on unsupported skinning modes. CLO's FBX documentation notes that Dual Quaternion and Eblend avatar skinning types are not compatible.

4. Use the Model as Trim or Rigid Reference Geometry

Use this method for buttons, buckles, zipper pulls, bags, rigid accessories, or reference parts that support the garment design.

Import the FBX with Object Type set to Trim.
Position and scale the imported object in the 3D window.
For props or background geometry that are better handled through OBJ, use File > Import > OBJ or File > Import (Add) > OBJ. CLO's OBJ import dialog includes load type, object type, scale, axis conversion, and translation controls.
Keep high-poly props lightweight while simulating garments. Use detailed geometry for final render shots, and simplified collision/reference shapes during heavy simulation work.

5. Check Materials and Textures

CLO can import material information from FBX and OBJ workflows, but always inspect the result after import.
In the Object Browser, select the imported material or related fabric/graphic style.
Use the Property Editor to reconnect or refine A23D maps:

A23DTEX_Albedo.png -> Base Color Map
A23DTEX_Normal.png -> Normal Map
A23DTEX_Roughness.png -> Roughness
A23DTEX_Metalness.png -> Metalness
A23DTEX_Opacity.png -> Opacity Map
A23DTEX_Height.png -> Displacement Map

For final presentation renders, use CLO's V-Ray render view to confirm the material response under production lighting.

Additional Resources

CLO Support - Compatible File Format
CLO Support - 3D File (FBX) Import/Export
CLO Support - Import OBJ
CLO Support - Import/Export Option Preset