SKETCHUP STARTER GUIDE

Sketchup for Web

an impressive program but because it’s based online it’s not nearly as powerful as the desktop version of the program.

Sketchup for Desktop

the downloaded and installed program that has a lot more capabilities.

Drawing Tools

There are two sections of tools that you’ll likely use most often (besides the select tool). include the Line tool, the Rectangle tool, and the Circle tool.

Modify tools

include the Move tool, the Push/Pull tool, the Rotate tool, and the Scale tool.

Spacebar

Select Tool

L

Line Tool

R

Rectangle Tool

C

Circle Tool

P

Push/Pull Tool

M

Move Tool

Q

Rotate Tool

S

Scale Tool

O or Middle Mouse Button

Orbit Tool

H or Shift + Middle Mouse Button

Pan Tool

Scroll Wheel

Zoom Tool

Selecting the Correct Template and Units

Architectural Design - Feet and Inches or Architectural Design - Millimeters

Organizing Your Model with Tags (formerly called Layers)

allow you to control the visibility of different elements in your model, making it easier to work on specific parts without distractions

Setting Up Scenes for Easy Navigation

a powerful way to save and quickly access different views of your model. you can easily navigate between different angles, camera perspectives, or design options.

Plan in 2D, Visualize in 3D:

Start by drawing your floor plan in 2D using the Top View and then use tools like Push/Pull to extrude walls and elements into 3D. Setting up scenes for 2D floor plans and 3D perspectives will allow you to jump between the two effortlessly

Tag for Clarity:

If you’re working on a large project, you may find it helpful to add sub-tags for more organization (e.g., Furniture-Bedroom, Furniture-Living Room). This gives you even more control over the visibility of your model components

Create Scenes and Tags for Workflow Steps:

Use scenes and tags to capture different stages of your design, like Concept Layout, Material Testing, or Final Renders. This way, you can revisit different stages of your model without disrupting your workflow.

Copy with Move Tool

Press M to move an object, and then tap Ctrl (Option on Mac) to create a copy. This is great for duplicating elements like chairs or light fixtures.

Array Duplicates:

After making a copy with Move, type in "x" followed by a number (e.g., x5) to create an array of duplicates evenly spaced.

Group Components Early:

Grouping elements as you model helps keep them organized and prevents unwanted merging of geometry. For example, group walls, floors, and furniture separately.

1001bit Tools (Freeware)

Perfect for quickly creating architectural components like staircases, windows, and doors, saving you time on manual modeling

Clothworks

A helpful extension that helps you create realistic fabric-like surfaces that follows parameters of draping, etc.

FredoScale

A versatile tool that enhances SketchUp’s native scaling options, allowing for more complex and precise modifications to your geometry.

Exporting 2D Images of Your Model

To export images or plans: Go to File > Export > 2D Graphic for images like JPEG, PNG, or PDF. This is great for exporting rendered views for presentations or further editing in Photoshop

Sharing Your 3D Model with Clients or Team Members

If you’re collaborating with others, Trimble Connect is a useful tool for sharing your models in an interactive format. Simply save your file to Trimble Connect and share it as a link. Recipients can then view the model on a browser by simply following the link.

Using LayOut to Create Scaled Plan Drawings & Elevations

LayOut, a companion tool for SketchUp Pro, allows you to turn your 3D models into professional 2D drawings, such as floor plans and elevations, at accurate scales.

LayOut to Create Scaled Plan Drawings & Elevations

Getting Started, Creating Scaled Views, Annotations & Dimensions, Exporting Your Drawings