Actually, there's nothing wrong with the *.3ds file format or UV maps loaded into it - I prefer it for its universality and small file size. However, some model-builders and some modelling tools don't do a good job, particularly if they are attempting to create single "normal map" in which the model-builder trys to get every part of the model mapped out onto a single image file. The "normal map" ends up being poorly made, usually with overlapping polygons on the image, or other poor separations between the model's components, ... and the *.3ds file header ends up with an illogical set of coordinates for the UV mapping points. Some cheap UV mapping tools do this, and some UV mapping tools built into inexpensive modelling programs do this. But, this is a problem with the modeller and/or his choice of UV mapping tool - it is not a problem with the *.3ds file format. (Not to mention a brokering site or web site that allows posting of models without checking to see if they pass minimum quality standards.) Sorry if this is long-winded. I'm an admitted techie, and it just bugs me a bit when people blame a file format as a general rule and don't cut to the actual source of the problem. Looking at your image, I'd say that you have a model with exactly this kind of problem, although it is possible that the image file part of your package was damaged, rather than damage to the model itself. My guess is that you have a product made by an inexperienced model-builder who used an inexpensive modelling program with a built-in UV mapping function. The sailboat problem looks fine in his or her program, but not in anyone else's program. Since you've tossed the sailboat object, is it possible for you to post the exact URL linking to the source of your bad sailboat model? (There are a lot of uninedxed models on Archive3d.net. If you had not tossed it, I would have liked to have taken a look at it to see if I could examine the UV map itself, and possibly rectify it, or tell you for certain that its a "lost job." Sorry I didn't see your post earlier - was babysitting a sick grandson for a coupe of days. Respectfylly, Forester