Material Maker review
A free node-based material tool for procedural PBR work across major game engines.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Material Maker is a free, open-source desktop application for creating procedural materials and exporting PBR textures or materials. It is aimed at artists, technical artists, game developers, and other users working on Windows, macOS, or Linux. Its strongest fit is for game-engine workflows that benefit from customizable materials rather than a subscription-based texturing suite.
The published Free plan includes the downloadable software, open-source access, and releases for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Material Maker supports Albedo, metallic, roughness, emission, normal, depth, and ambient-occlusion channels, with 2D and 3D previews for reviewing materials. Exports can be saved as PNG, JPG, WebP, or EXR, giving users several common output options without introducing paid tiers.
Its standout capability is node-based procedural authoring, supported by procedural brushes with paint, procedural, and mask layers. The software also includes experimental painting directly on 3D models and export workflows for Godot, Unity, and Unreal. That combination makes it a practical choice for users who want to build reusable, adjustable materials and move them into game-engine projects. Users seeking a tool centered on procedural graphs, PBR channels, and engine exports should consider Material Maker. Those looking for a less experimental 3D painting workflow or a paid product with tiered service options should look elsewhere.
Material Maker pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free, open-source desktop software for Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Node graphs support procedural PBR materials and multiple channels
- Export workflows cover Godot, Unity, and Unreal
- Where it doesn't
- 3D model painting is described as experimental
- The workflow centers on procedural node-based authoring
- No paid tier adds expanded capabilities or support
Material Maker fact sheet, pricing and score →
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