How Do You Copy Equally in SketchUp?

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In SketchUp, copying objects is a common task that allows you to quickly duplicate elements in your model. However, it’s important to know how to copy equally in SketchUp to maintain symmetry and consistency throughout your design. In this tutorial, we will explore different methods to achieve equal copying.

Using the Move Tool

To copy objects equally in SketchUp, we can utilize the Move tool along with some simple keyboard modifiers. Here’s how:

  1. Select the object you want to copy by clicking on it once.
  2. Activate the Move tool by clicking on its icon in the toolbar or by pressing the ‘M’ key on your keyboard.
  3. Hold down the Ctrl key (Command key on Mac) to activate the copy mode.
  4. Click on a reference point for the move operation. This could be a corner, midpoint, or any other point of your choice.
  5. Type in a value for the distance you want to move and press Enter.

    For example, if you want to create an equally spaced row of chairs with a distance of 2 feet between them, type ‘2’ and hit Enter.

  6. Type ‘x’, followed by an asterisk ‘*’, and then type in the number of copies you want to make. For instance, if you want to create six copies of the selected object, type ‘x*6’ and press Enter.

This method allows you to precisely control both the distance between copies and the number of copies created. It’s perfect for creating evenly spaced elements like windows along a wall or columns in a building facade.

The Array Modifier

If you prefer a non-destructive way of creating equally spaced copies, you can use the Array modifier. Here’s how:

  1. Select the object you want to copy.
  2. Go to the ‘Window’ menu, select ‘Extensions’, and choose ‘SketchUp Extension Warehouse’.
  3. In the Extension Warehouse window, search for ‘Array’ and install a suitable Array extension.
  4. Once installed, you should find the Array tool in the toolbar or in a new menu item.
  5. Click on the Array tool to activate it.
  6. Specify the number of copies you want to make. For example, if you want six copies, type ‘6’ and hit Enter.

The Array modifier will automatically distribute equally spaced copies of your selected object. This method is great for creating patterns or repetitive elements that require easy adjustment later on. You can always modify the array settings to change the spacing or number of copies as needed.

Duplicating Along a Path

If you need to create equally spaced copies along a specific path or curve, SketchUp provides a handy tool called ‘Follow Me’. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Create a path or curve using any of SketchUp’s drawing tools.
  2. Select the object you want to copy.
  3. Activate the Follow Me tool by clicking on its icon in the toolbar or by navigating to ‘Tools’ > ‘Follow Me’.
  4. Click on the path or curve that you created in step one.

The Follow Me tool will extrude your selected object along the path, creating equally spaced copies. This method is particularly useful for creating complex shapes or decorative elements that follow a specific form.

Conclusion

Copying objects equally in SketchUp is a fundamental skill that every designer should master. Whether you prefer using the Move tool, the Array modifier, or the Follow Me tool, having this knowledge will greatly enhance your modeling capabilities. Experiment with these methods and discover new ways to create symmetrical and consistent designs in SketchUp!