How to texture a 3D model

[NecroDOME]

Im wondering how I can properly texture a 3D model. (Using 3D max)

Teh way I do it now:
1. Render the model from top (or side view)
2. Paste the image in photoshop
3. Trying to make a nice image.
4. Stick teh image back on the 3D model useing UV Unwrap...

Is there a better way? It mostly looks like crap with round models and my textures are left with unused spaces.
So how could I create some skin like this, but with less black spaces...:

[Traveler]

Hmm, I'm not sure I follow you with steps 1 and 2.
Then again, I only have experience with Lightwave and things might go a bit different in Max.

1. create model
2. unwrap model to create a flat wireframe (uv map)
3. create your texture, based on the uv map
4. put the texture on the model.

Mayby this tutorial might help you.

[NecroDOME]

thanx .. Gonna try some thing