Curvature & Edge Wear From a Normal Map

Generate believable wear masks fast—no Substance required.

The Workflow

1. Open your Normal map in Photoshop.
2. Convert it to Smart Object (right-click layer → Convert).
3. Duplicate the layer.
4. On the duplicate: Filter → 3D (or normal tools/plugins if you use them).
   • Alternative Method: Convert to grayscale → use High Pass + Levels to isolate edges.
5. Use Levels/Curves to sharpen the mask.
6. Blur slightly (Gaussian Blur 0.5–2 px) to remove harsh noise.
7. Use the result as a mask for dirt, roughness variation, or chipped paint.

The Usage

Edge wear sells scale. Even a quick curvature-style mask lets you add “used” realism in minutes—great for props, armor, and anything metallic.