Are you struggling with creating a cut list in SketchUp? Look no further!
In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of making a cut list in SketchUp, step by step. So let’s get started!
What is a Cut List?
A cut list is a comprehensive document that provides detailed information about the dimensions and quantities of various parts required to build a project. It helps woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts to efficiently plan their projects, optimize material usage, and minimize waste.
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SketchUp is a powerful 3D modeling software widely used in the woodworking community. It allows you to create accurate 3D models of your projects and generate precise cut lists effortlessly.
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If you haven’t already done so, start by modeling your project in SketchUp. Ensure that all the components are properly placed and accurately sized before proceeding with generating the cut list.
Create Groups or Components
To make your life easier when generating a cut list, it is essential to organize your model using groups or components. This allows you to define individual parts and assign unique names to them.
To create a group, select the desired geometry, right-click on it, and choose “Make Group” from the context menu. Alternatively, you can use the shortcut Ctrl+G (Windows) or Command+G (Mac).
To create a component, follow the same process as creating a group but choose “Make Component” instead.
Create Scenes for Different Views
Sometimes it becomes challenging to understand a complex model from just one perspective. To overcome this issue, SketchUp offers a handy feature called scenes. Scenes allow you to save specific views of your model, including camera position, visibility settings, and style properties.
To create a scene, navigate to the “Window” menu and choose “Scenes.” Click on the “+” button to add a new scene.
Adjust the camera position and other settings as required for that particular view. Repeat this process for different angles or sections of your model.
Generate a Cut List
Once your model is organized and scenes are set up, it’s time to generate the cut list using an extension called “CutList”. This extension automates the process of extracting component information from your model and generating a comprehensive cut list.
- Step 1: Open the Extension Warehouse in SketchUp by navigating to “Window” > “Extension Warehouse. “
- Step 2: Search for “CutList” in the Extension Warehouse search bar.
- Step 3: Click on the desired CutList extension from the search results and click on “Install.
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- Step 4: After installation, go to the “Extensions” menu and choose “CutList” > “Generate Cut List. “
The CutList extension will analyze your model, extract all relevant information such as component names, dimensions, quantities, materials, etc., and present it in a formatted table.
Saving and Exporting
Saving
If you want to save your cut list for future reference or make any modifications later on, it’s crucial to save it properly within your SketchUp project. To do this:
- Step 1: Create a new scene and name it “Cut List” or something similar.
- Step 2: Hide any unnecessary geometry or elements that may clutter your cut list.
- Step 3: Save your SketchUp project by going to “File” > “Save.”
Exporting
If you want to share your cut list with others who may not have SketchUp, you can export it as a CSV (Comma-Separated Values) file. This format is widely compatible with spreadsheet applications such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.
- Step 1: With the CutList extension open, click on the “Export” button.
- Step 2: Choose a location on your computer to save the exported file.
- Step 3: Specify the file format as “CSV” and click on “Save.”
In Conclusion
In this tutorial, we learned how to create a cut list in SketchUp using the CutList extension. By properly organizing your model, creating scenes, and generating a comprehensive cut list, you can streamline your woodworking projects and make accurate material estimates. Remember to save your cut list within SketchUp for future reference and consider exporting it as a CSV file for easy sharing with others.
Become a master of cut lists in SketchUp and elevate your woodworking skills!