Skip to content
BLBlender

Import Csv

by a python script·Workflow

Images © a python script. Used for product review; image policy.

Why we like it

Import Csv earns its place for a focused job: getting CSV data onto a mesh's point domain as float Named Attributes. Worth noting that from Blender 4.5 the add-on becomes unnecessary, since geometry nodes gain import nodes that can also read CSV data.

What is Import Csv?

Import Csv is a Blender add-on for getting CSV data onto a mesh. When you import a file, it creates a new object with a new mesh and generates exactly one vertex per row, with every vertex sharing the position [0, 0, 0]. Each column becomes a Named Attribute with the same name, and a csv_data_row_index column records the original row index. Values are placed in the Point Domain and stored as float.

The tool adds a "CSV" category to the 3D viewport's right sidebar, with an Import CSV... button for choosing a file and an Export Random CSV... button that outputs a 6x1000 .csv file of random data for quick prototyping and testing. Source data must be interpretable as float, since it is converted to float on import, and the correct delimiter needs to be set in the file dialog.

It's aimed at visualizing CSV data with Geometry Nodes and shader development using Named Attributes. From Blender 4.5, this add-on becomes unnecessary, as Blender 4.5 adds import nodes for geometry nodes that can also import CSV data. The add-on is distributed under the GPL license.

Who is Import Csv best for?

Import Csv is best for blender users importing CSV data into meshes for Geometry Nodes visualization and shader development with Named Attributes.

How much does Import Csv cost?

Import Csv is completely free to download and use.

Key features

  • Imports CSV data into the point domain of a newly created mesh, generating one vertex per row
  • Creates a Named Attribute for each column plus a csv_data_row_index column, with values stored as float
  • Export Random CSV button outputs a 6x1000 .csv file of random data for quick prototyping and testing
  • Adds a "CSV" category panel to the 3D viewport sidebar with import and export buttons
  • Aimed at visualizing CSV data with Geometry Nodes and shader development using Named Attributes

Tags

#CSV import#Geometry Nodes#Named Attributes#point domain#CSV export#data visualization#Blender add-on

Frequently asked questions

What Blender versions does Import Csv support?

Import Csv lists support for Blender 4.1, 4.0, and 3.6. Worth knowing: from Blender 4.5 the add-on becomes unnecessary, since Blender 4.5 adds import nodes for geometry nodes that can also import CSV data directly. If you're on one of the listed versions, the add-on covers the CSV-to-mesh workflow, while on 4.5 and later you can reach for the built-in import nodes instead. Check the developer's page for the latest details on version coverage.

How do I install Import Csv in Blender?

Import Csv installs like a standard Blender add-on. Download the .zip file, then open Preferences, go to the Add-ons section, and use Install... to select the .zip. After installing, activate it by ticking its checkmark. Once enabled, a new category called "CSV" appears in the right sidebar of the 3D viewport, with a panel containing two buttons: Import CSV... for choosing a .csv file, and Export Random CSV... for generating a sample file.

What happens to my data when Import Csv reads a CSV file?

Import Csv creates a new object with a new mesh during import. It generates exactly one vertex per row in the CSV data, and all vertices share the same position [0, 0, 0]. For each column it creates a Named Attribute with the same name, and it adds a csv_data_row_index column representing the original row index. The data land in the Point Domain and are stored as float. Make sure the correct delimiter is set in the file dialog when importing.

Can Import Csv handle text or non-numeric CSV columns?

Import Csv requires that the CSV source data be interpretable as float, because the values are converted to float on import. Columns holding text or other non-numeric content won't fit that requirement. To confirm your file is valid, you can use the Export Random CSV... button to generate an example .csv, then match its structure. Also make sure the correct delimiter is set in the file dialog when importing, so the columns are read as expected.

Is Import Csv free to use?

Import Csv is listed as free here, and it's distributed under the GPL license. The developer notes that future updates and bugfixes are provided for free. For current licensing and any pricing specifics, check the developer's page. Keep in mind that from Blender 4.5 onward, CSV import becomes available through built-in geometry nodes import nodes, which may affect whether you need the add-on at all.

Similar plugins