Learn SketchUp

Introduction

The history of SketchUp including some discussion on versions of SketchUp. SketchUp Pro. The SketchUp interface. Using the rectangle and the Push/Pull tool to create 3D shapes. Placing rectangles on a 3D surface. The function of each item on the main toolbar. Creating an accurately sized model of a rainwater tank (with downpipes) by drawing and extruding circles. Drawing arcs, combining the line and arc tool. Using the offset command. Experimenting with different display techniques. Examining some examples of SketchUp models from different disciplines.

Interface

We build two simple models while making an examination of the SketchUp interface – an arrangement for some curved seating and a rainwater tank withstand. We first use the rectangle tool and come to terms with the Push/Pull tool to create a box. We draw a second rectangle on the face of a box. The pen tool is then used to draw a rectangle. We close the rectangle using an inference aid. The Pan tool is used and comment is made about the ‘helper’ model in the corner of the screen. We use the Push/Pull tool along with the inference ‘helper’ to line faces up. We set out the function of each of the tools on the main SketchUp palette.

The File drop-down menu, importing a CAD model, importing an image file into the SketchUp environment.

Interface 2

A focus on the view commands. Display types, pages, TourGuide. We set out the function of each of the tools on the main SketchUp palette. We use the section cut tool to slice through a model. The importance of properly construction models using components is stressed.

Preliminaries

In this module, we cover a number of issues that are loosely related. We describe the release history of SketchUp, discuss SketchUp Pro and working in the metric environment rather than the environment of the imperial unit, examine methods for configuring SketchUp, and discuss exporting and importing information to and from SketchUp to other programs. Rendering using software tools outside the SketchUp environment. Obtaining models from the 3D warehouse; merging models with Google Earth.

Draw

The draw commands – using the line, arc, polygon, and freehand tools.

File menu

Examining the options on the File drop-down menu. Importing models from other software. Using DXF files, importing image files – gif, jpeg, BMP and attaching these to entities in the SketchUp model. Using the Revert option. Using the Print Preview tool.

Editing

The Edit drop-down menu – another look at the Push/Pull, Offset commands.

Tools

Another look at the Copy, Move, Follow me, Scale, Rotate, etc commands.

Layers

Drawing a parallel between the use of layers in CAD software and layers in SketchUp. Using the Layer manager tool to create a new layer, deleting layers. Working with layers and assigning a color to layers.

Grouping objects

Selecting individual objects and grouping them together. Editing a group of objects. using the rotate tool. Using the move tool to line groups up.

Components

Using SketchUp’s component library. The difference between components and groups. Properties of components. Making a simple window component. A more complex window. Turning groups of objects into components for use in other SketchUp models. From the SketchUp help file.

Case Study – a rear garden for a two-story house

This case study shows SketchUp being used to create a simple model of a landscape design for the rear of a two-story house.

Putting it all together

This case study provides an opportunity to draw together the SketchUp skills learned thus far. We use SketchUp to create a model that began life in the AutoCAD/IntelliCAD environment and we move the rudimentary plan to SketchUp showing that AutoCAD geometry, blocks, and layering can be incorporated into a SketchUp model. This saves designers much time as they can utilize existing work. The design comprises a rather large walled courtyard, 10 meters by 10 meters which includes a curved entrance statement, an L-shaped paved area with formal seating, a water feature, an active play area [noughts and crosses] and extensive planting.

Terrain modeling

Terrain modeling in SketchUp.

3D warehouse

Google SketchUp has links to a large set of 3D models that you can use in your own design work. Google encourages you to share your models with others and upload models into Google Earth.

Texture mapping

Use the paint tool to apply textures to your models. Creating and using new texture maps.

Rendering using plug-ins

Installing plug-ins can help you gain extra performance from your SketchUp tool. Many ray tracing and rendering tools are available, and some can be downloaded and installed for free.

Attaching Images to Models

Attaching image files to frames in your model. Stretching and distorting images to fit the model.

Camera

Setting up the camera.

Printing

Printing SketchUp views.

Downloads

Downloading sample files required for the course.

Exporting models from SketchUp

Exporting SketchUp models to DXF, DWG, and 3DS format is suitable for use in CAD software.

Case Study 1

I am creating a design for the rear garden of a house. The design calls for outdoor entertaining for adults – a wood-fired pizza oven and kitchen, sandpit, cubby house for two younger family members and an active ‘sports’ area for teenage boys.

Case Study 2

Design for a kitchen. Use a CAD drawing as a base on which to build a SketchUp model. Render the model inside SketchUp with the Podium plugin. Render in external renderers.

TurboView

A quick overview of SketchUp.