Are you wondering how to view your SketchUp model online? Look no further!
In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process step by step. So let’s dive right in!
Step 1: Exporting Your Model
Before you can view your SketchUp model online, you need to export it in a compatible format. The recommended format for web viewing is .3DS, which is widely supported by various platforms and browsers.
To export your model as a 3DS file, follow these steps:
- Select the entire model or the specific components you want to include in the exported file.
- Navigate to the “File” menu and choose “Export” from the dropdown list.
- Select “3D Model” from the export options.
- Name your file and choose a suitable location to save it.
- Click on the “Export” button to initiate the export process.
Step 2: Uploading Your Model Online
Now that you have your exported 3DS file, it’s time to upload it online so that you can view it in a browser. There are several ways to achieve this, but we will focus on two popular methods:
A. Using SketchUp’s Web Exporter Tool (Sketchfab)
If you prefer a hassle-free approach, SketchUp provides an integrated tool called Sketchfab, which allows you to upload and share your models with ease. To use Sketchfab:
- Login to your SketchUp account and open your model in the SketchUp desktop application.
- Select the “Window” menu and choose “Extensions Manager” to open the Extensions Manager dialog box.
- Click on the “Install Extension” button and browse for the Sketchfab extension file (.RBZ) you downloaded from the SketchUp Extension Warehouse. Install it by following the prompted instructions.
- Once installed, you will find a new “Publish to Sketchfab” option under the “Extensions” menu.
Click on it.
- Enter your Sketchfab credentials or create a new account if you don’t have one. Follow the instructions to authorize the extension.
- Select your desired export settings and click on “Upload.” Your model will be uploaded to Sketchfab, and you will receive a link to view it online.
B. Uploading to a Web Hosting Service
If you prefer more control over your model’s hosting, you can upload it to a web hosting service of your choice. Here’s how:
- Create an account with a web hosting service that supports static file hosting, such as GitHub Pages or Netlify.
- Create a new repository or project in your web hosting service account.
- Navigate to your newly created repository or project and upload your exported 3DS file into its root directory using their provided interface or Git commands.
- Note down the URL of your uploaded file, which should be in the format: https://yourusername.github.io/yourrepository/yourfile.3DS (replace “yourusername,” “yourrepository,” and “yourfile” with your actual information).
Step 3: Viewing Your Model Online
Now that your SketchUp model is uploaded online, you can easily view it in any web browser. Simply open a new tab and enter the URL of your uploaded file.
If you used Sketchfab, you will be redirected to their platform, where you can interact with your model using their built-in viewer tools. If you chose to host your model on a web hosting service, the 3DS file will be displayed directly in the browser window.
Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to view your SketchUp model online. Now you can share it with others or embed it in websites to showcase your design skills!
We hope this tutorial was helpful and that you enjoyed learning with us. Happy modeling!