Can You Export OBJ From SketchUp Free?

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Can You Export OBJ From SketchUp Free?

SketchUp is a popular 3D modeling software that allows users to create and manipulate 3D objects with ease. One of the common file formats used in 3D modeling is OBJ, which stands for Wavefront Object.

OBJ files are widely supported by various 3D modeling and rendering software, making it easy to share and collaborate on projects.

Exporting OBJ from SketchUp Free

SketchUp Free is the web-based version of SketchUp, which offers a range of features for creating, editing, and viewing 3D models. However, when it comes to exporting files, there are some limitations compared to the desktop version.

The ability to export OBJ files directly from SketchUp Free is not available natively.

Workaround: Using a Plugin

Fortunately, there is a workaround that allows you to export your SketchUp Free models as OBJ files. This workaround involves using a plugin called “SimLab OBJ Exporter” developed by Simlab Soft. To use this plugin, follow the steps below:

  1. Step 1: Open SketchUp Free in your web browser.
  2. Step 2: Go to the Extension Warehouse by clicking on the “Extension Warehouse” icon in the toolbar.
  3. Step 3: Search for “SimLab OBJ Exporter” using the search bar in the Extension Warehouse.
  4. Step 4: Click on the “Download” button next to the SimLab OBJ Exporter plugin.
  5. Step 5: Once downloaded, click on the “Extensions” menu in SketchUp Free and select “Manage Extensions.”
  6. Step 6: Click on the “Install Extension” button and choose the downloaded SimLab OBJ Exporter file.
  7. Step 7: After installation, you will find the SimLab OBJ Exporter plugin under the “Extensions” menu.
  8. Step 8: With your model open in SketchUp Free, click on the “Extensions” menu and select “SimLab OBJ Exporter.”
  9. Step 9: Configure the export settings, such as file name, export options, and materials.
  10. Step 10: Click on the “Export” button to save your model as an OBJ file.

By following these steps, you can overcome the limitation of exporting OBJ files directly from SketchUp Free. The SimLab OBJ Exporter plugin provides a reliable solution for users who need to work with OBJ files in their projects.

In Conclusion

While SketchUp Free does not offer native support for exporting OBJ files, you can utilize the SimLab OBJ Exporter plugin to overcome this limitation. By following the steps outlined above, you can export your SketchUp Free models as OBJ files and easily collaborate with others using different 3D modeling software.

Remember that plugins can vary in compatibility and functionality depending on updates to SketchUp Free or changes made by plugin developers. It’s always a good practice to check for updates and ensure compatibility before relying on a specific plugin for your workflow.