Sketchup tutorial
Introduction
Setting up the environment
The free sketchup version can be much enhanced with so-called plugins. To install a Plugin, copy its files directly to the sketchup plugins directory, e.g c:\programs\google\google sketchup 8\plugins. After restarting plugins you then will have additional tools. Usually there should be a new tool palette.
Another time saving strategy is to import existing models. A lot can be found in the Google 3D Warehouse.
Use SketchUp Components from the Warehous
- Within Google Sketchup you have direct access to components that are part of the warehouse: Select Window -> Components.
- Click the Select tab to make sure you're viewing the Select panel.
- Click the "Navigation" button (it looks like an upside-down triangle).
- Select a Bonus Pack, such as "Architecture, or "Landscape." A list of related component collections is displayed.
In prior version of Google Sketchup, these models were available as zip file for download
Otherwise, you can import just any model:
- File -> 3D Warehouse -> Get models
Google warehouse
Indexes for extensions
In order to find good plugins, there are several web sites, e.g.:
- Register at Sketchup U cation and go to the list or search. We suggest to look at Must have Ruby plugins. I got:
- Join push / pull (to extrude several objects, found in "must have Ruby plugins")
- JS Align - align along 1 of the three axis (found through Search in the education forum)
- A surface tool plugin (allow to draw on curved surfaces, found in "must have Ruby plugins")
Free and free for education plugins
Artisan
- Artisan for Sketchup. $40
- This is a subdivision / sculpt tool for "organic" forms like characters
1001bit tools
- 1001bit tools, free for education.
- This plugin provides a large series tools for architects. Recommended.
Commercial plugins
CADSpan
- CADspan Includes a resurferface (to create a watertight model), export to STL. A free version is available for pesonal use and small applications.
Slice modeler
- SketchUp SliceModeler v1.4 $10 or more. Translates a 3D form into vertical x and y slices that you then can print flat for later assembly)
Google building maker
- If you plan to create very simple 3D buildings for inclusion in Google Earth, e.g. a cube with some pictures and its side walls, then have a look at Google building maker and then read Building Maker Getting Started Guide.
Acknowledgements
Various objects shown were found in the Google warehouse:
- Swimming pool by Conan
- Palm trees by best-lemming