Projection mapping let's you transform ordinary objects into dynamic displays by projecting visuals onto them. MadMapper is one of the most popular tools for this. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started with the free version.
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Connect Your Projector
- Plug your projector into your laptop.
- In your computer's display settings, set the projector up as an extended display (not mirrored).
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Launch MadMapper
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Open the software and click the Video Output icon, at the top left corner of the interface.
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In the Settings tab, on the left side of the interface, set the Destination to be your projector.
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Make sure to match the resolution by clicking the two arrows icon next to Output Size.
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To project in Full Screen mode, click the central icon on the horizontal bar at the top of the interface.
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Choose your Content
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From the top left toolbar, click the Media Library icon.
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On the right, you’ll see preloaded images and animations. Double-click one to load it.
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This is your texture.
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Map the Texture/Content to Your Object
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On the left vertical toolbar, click the Rectangle tool.
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A rectangle with your texture will appear in the main viewer area. Adjust the corners to align with your physical object.
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Right-click and select → Add Warping Point to add more corners.
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Note: MadMapper isn’t an editing program, but you can:
- Resize, rotate or scale textures.
- Adjust colors in the Settings tab using Color Controls.
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Upload Your Own Content
- In the media list on the right side of the interface, click the + icon to add images or videos. You can also select live inputs (e.g. webcam, Unreal Engine stream).
- Double-click your file's name to load it onto the viewer.
- Create a new shape using the Rectangle, Circle or Triangle tool to project it.
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Masking Complex Shapes
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For irregular objects, click the Mask tool on the left hand side of the interface.
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Draw the outline of your object directly on the laptop screen while looking at your projection.
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Press Enter to close the shape.
Note: Masks are layers added on top of shapes (they won't work on their own). -
You can now move the whole mask, edit points or add warping points.
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In the Settings tab, you can Invert the mask or add Feathering to soften the mask edges.
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- The free version of MadMapper won’t let you save projects and will display a watermark.
- To work with the full license, you can book our Multipurpose Booth or request access to licensed exhibition computers (advance booking required).
👉 That’s it! You now know how to set up MadMapper, project built-in visuals, upload your own and mask shapes for more complex objects.