How to Add 3D Text in Revit: Model Text

3D text in Revit makes your space descriptions stand out in 3D views and renderings. The Model Text is the tool you need.

Unlike annotation text, which is only visible in 2D views, model text is part of the geometry and can be rendered in 3D views.

In this blog post, you will learn how to create model text, change its size, add materials and thickness, render it, and make it glow. By the end of this tutorial, you will be able to create stunning 3D text that will make your Revit projects shine.

First, open a new project and add a brick wall:

1. Open an architectural template in Revit.
2. Go to the Architecture tab > Build panel > click Wall.
3. Select a brick wall type from the Type Selector.
4. Draw a wall in the plan view.
5. Open the North elevation view.

Create 3D Text

Details: Add 3D text to a Revit project.

Model text is a feature that allows you to create 3D text elements that can be placed in your model or on your sheets.

Steps

1. Go to the Architecture tab > Model panel > click Model Text.
2. Choose Pick a Plane.
3. Click on the wall face.
4. Type text to create a 3D text component.

5. Left-click to place the text on the wall.
6. Click OK.

Looking for ways to decorate your walls? Learn how to create Revit wall art.

The text is now applied in 3D. Let’s edit its size.

Change Text Size

Use the Edit Type option to change the size of your model text.

To change the text size:

1. Select the model text that you want to resize
2. On the Properties palette, click the Edit Type button.
3. Under the Text category, change value of Text Size.
4. Click OK.

✨ Tip: Drop-down the Text Font menu to change the font type.

Learn how to use the View Control bar to customize your views.

Change Text Color

Add materials to text to change its color and personalize its look.

To change the color of the text:

1. Select the model text in the 3D view.
2. On the Properties palette, click the Material small square button.
3. Search for high luminance glass > select the material.
4. Adjust material properties as needed.
5. Click OK.

✨ Tip: To change the thickness of the 3D text, change the Depth value under Dimensions in the Properties palette.

Now you can see the model text with the applied material and thickness in the 3D view. But to see the glow, the scene needs to be rendered.

Let’s use the native rendering engine. For more advanced renders, learn how to use Enscape in Revit.

Render the Model Text

Use the Render tool to see how the model text look in a realistic lighting and environment.

To render the model text:

1. Go to the View tab > Presentation panel > click Render.
2. Select Interior Artificial only in the Lighting settings.
3. Click Render.
4. On the Image panel, click Adjust Exposure.

5. Change the exposure value to increase or decrease the glow effect.
6. Click Apply to see changes > click OK to finish.

Voila! Your glowing text rendering is complete. Export it by clicking the Export button in the Image panel. Learn more about Revit renderings.

✨ Tip: Annotation text, keynotes, and room tags are other ways to graphically describe your spaces in in 2D views.

Use the Model Text feature to create Revit 3D text. It’s now your turn to inspire your audience.

Mohamed Fakhry

Mohamed Fakhry has helped thousands of architects and designers find their next project with step-by-step guidance on his blog, mashyo.com. About Mohamed

His journey began during his university years when he recognized the need for information-rich 3D models to accelerate learning and improve production processes. Now, Mohamed shares his expertise through Revit tutorials that are accessible to all.