The Slice Tool in SketchUp is a powerful feature that allows you to cut through objects and create sections. It can be especially useful when you want to reveal the internal structure of a model or create detailed cross-sections for presentations or construction drawings.
To access the Slice Tool, select it from the Tools menu or use the keyboard shortcut, which is the letter “K”. Once activated, your cursor will change to a small blade icon.
To use the Slice Tool, follow these steps:
Step 1:
Select the object you want to slice. This could be a simple shape like a cube or a more complex model. If you are working with multiple objects, make sure to group them together first.
Step 2:
Position your cursor where you want to start the cut and click once. This will set the starting point for your slice.
Step 3:
Move your cursor along the desired path of the cut and click again to set an endpoint. You can create straight cuts by clicking at different locations or create curved cuts by clicking and dragging.
Note: Holding down the Shift key while slicing will constrain your cut to horizontal, vertical, or diagonal directions.
Once you have completed your slice, SketchUp will automatically create two separate objects – one on each side of the cut. These objects will retain all their original properties like materials and textures.
Now that you know how to use the Slice Tool in SketchUp let’s explore some additional tips and tricks:
Tips for Using the Slice Tool Efficiently
- Undo and Redo: If you make a mistake while slicing, use Ctrl + Z (or Command + Z on Mac) to undo your last action. You can also use Ctrl + Y (or Command + Y on Mac) to redo an action.
- Group Objects: Before using the Slice Tool, it’s a good practice to group the objects you want to cut. This way, you can easily manage and modify them later without affecting other parts of your model.
- Hide Edges: If you don’t want to see the edges of your sliced objects, you can hide them by selecting the object, right-clicking, and choosing “Hide”.
This will give your model a cleaner look.
- Combine Sliced Objects: To combine multiple sliced objects into a single entity, select them all and right-click. Then choose “Intersect Faces” followed by “With Selection”. This will create a new object that represents the combined shape of the sliced pieces.
Conclusion
The Slice Tool in SketchUp is a versatile tool for creating sections and revealing detailed views of your models. By using this tool effectively and applying some additional tips and tricks, you can enhance your workflow and create stunning presentations or construction drawings.
Remember to experiment with different cutting paths and explore the various possibilities offered by this powerful feature. Happy slicing!