The present disclosure includes a method for modifying an input image to map to a three dimensional shape prior to forming the three dimensional shape. The method includes receiving by a processor at least two pre-forming images of a locally unique non-repeating pattern printed on an input material. The at least two pre-forming images are captured prior to the input material being formed into the three dimensional shape. The method further includes receiving by the processor at least two post-forming images of the pattern printed on the input material, wherein the post-forming images are captured after the input material has been formed into the three dimensional shape and analyzing by the processor the at least pre-forming images and the at least two post-forming images to determine a translation table.