Can You Push Pull a Line in SketchUp?

by

SketchUp is a powerful 3D modeling software that allows you to create realistic models and designs. One of the most commonly used tools in SketchUp is the Push/Pull tool, which enables you to extrude or push/pull a face or surface to create depth.

But can you push/pull a line in SketchUp

The short answer is no, you cannot push/pull a line directly in SketchUp. The Push/Pull tool works only on faces or surfaces, not on individual lines. However, there are workarounds that allow you to achieve similar results.

Using the Follow Me Tool

If you want to extrude or push/pull a line in SketchUp, one option is to use the Follow Me tool. This tool allows you to create complex shapes by extruding along a path.

Here’s how:

  1. Select the line you want to push/pull and make it a component or group by right-clicking and choosing “Make Component” or “Make Group”. This step is important because the Follow Me tool requires a closed loop or path.
  2. Create a face perpendicular to your line at one end.
  3. Select the face and activate the Follow Me tool (Tools → Follow Me).
  4. Click on your line and drag it along the desired path.
  5. Release the mouse button when you’ve reached your desired depth.

This method allows you to push/pull a line by creating faces along its path. However, keep in mind that this technique may not always produce accurate results, especially if your line has curves or intersects with other geometry.

Creating an Extrusion from Lines

If using the Follow Me tool is not suitable for your needs, another option is to create an extrusion from lines manually. While this method requires a bit more effort, it gives you more control over the shape and dimensions of your extrusion.

  1. Create a rectangle or any closed shape that represents the cross-section of your desired extrusion.
  2. Select the line you want to push/pull and activate the Move tool (Tools → Move).
  3. While holding the Ctrl key (Option key on Mac), move the line along its length to create a copy.
  4. Select both lines and use the Offset tool (Tools → Offset) to create another set of lines parallel to the original ones.
  5. Connect the corresponding vertices of the inner and outer sets of lines with edges, creating faces in between.
  6. Delete unnecessary lines or faces if needed.

This method allows you to create an extrusion by manually connecting lines and creating faces. It requires more steps but provides greater flexibility in terms of shape and control.

In conclusion,

While you cannot push/pull a line directly in SketchUp, there are workarounds that allow you to achieve similar results. Using the Follow Me tool or creating an extrusion from lines manually are two common methods for pushing/pulling a line in SketchUp.

Remember: Always experiment with different techniques and tools in SketchUp to find what works best for your specific project. With practice, you’ll become more proficient at creating complex models and designs using this versatile software.