Tired of clicking to get to Paint 3D’s good bits? Find out here how to permanently expand the Paint 3D sidebar and act on 3D objects and images faster (plus a keyboard shortcut).
First, Good-Bye Moon!
The closest companion to our earth is receding slowly into space.
Currently, the distance between earth and moon increases by some 3.8 cm (1.5 in) every year because the earth’s spin keeps pulling on the moon faster and slightly faster as if it was connected with a string to the planet’s wobbly masses.
While this is happening, why not also increase the distance between your Paint 3D canvas and its outer edge—to make room for the tool you’re currently using?
How to Make the Paint 3D Sidebar Always Visible
Time needed: 1 minute
To always see the expanded sidebar (and not have to click needlessly to show its tools) in Paint 3D:
- Click the menu button in Paint 3D.
Paint 3D keyboard shortcut: You can also press Alt F.
- Select Settings from the menu that has appeared.
- Turn Off the Use compact view option under Settings.
More space for pictures: To hide the sidebar and avoid wasting space, make sure Use compact view is On, of course.
- Click Back.
If the sidebar is collapsed, click the tool in current use to expand it. You can magically select objects, for instance.
How to Collapse and Expand the Paint 3D Sidebar with a Keyboard Shortcut
To quickly show and hide the full sidebar and access either the full canvas or tool options easily:
- Press M.
Not just one: Find more Paint 3D shortcuts.
You can then focus on it and navigate its tools using the keyboard alone as well:
- Press Alt B.
- Use the Tab, Shift Tab, ←, ↓, ↑, →, and Enter keys among others to navigate, change and apply options from the sidebar.
(How to permanently expand the Paint 3D sidebar tested with Paint 3D 6.2105–6.2310; updated March 2024)