How Do You Bend Models in Sketchup?

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Are you looking to add more depth and dimension to your models in Sketchup? One technique that can help you achieve this is bending.

Bending allows you to create curved surfaces, adding a touch of elegance and realism to your designs. In this tutorial, we will explore various methods to bend models in Sketchup, giving your creations a whole new level of sophistication.

Method 1: Using the Follow Me Tool

If you want to bend a flat surface along a path, the Follow Me tool is your best friend. This powerful tool allows you to extrude shapes along a given path, creating curved surfaces effortlessly.

To use the Follow Me tool:

  1. Select the shape you want to bend.
  2. Activate the Follow Me tool by clicking on its icon or navigating through the Tools menu.
  3. Click on the path where you want the shape to be bent.
  4. Wait for Sketchup to perform its magic and voila! Your shape is now bent along the desired path.

Method 2: Curviloft Extension

If you’re looking for more advanced bending options, consider using the Curviloft extension. This extension offers a wide range of tools specifically designed for creating complex curved surfaces.

To use Curviloft:

  1. Download and install the Curviloft extension from the Sketchup Extension Warehouse.
  2. Select the edges or faces that you want to bend.
  3. Navigate through Extensions > Curviloft > Loft by Spline or Loft along Path.
  4. Follow the prompts and adjust the settings to achieve your desired bend.
  5. Click on the “OK” button and admire your beautifully bent model.

Method 3: Using Plugins

If neither of the previous methods satisfies your needs, fear not! The world of Sketchup plugins has got you covered. There are various plugins available that can help you bend models in ways you never thought possible.

A popular choice among Sketchup users is the FredoScale plugin. This versatile tool offers a wide range of transformation options, including bending, twisting, and tapering.

To use FredoScale:

  1. Download and install the FredoScale plugin from the Sketchucation Plugin Store.
  2. Select the objects you want to bend.
  3. Navigate through Plugins > Fredo6 Collection > FredoScale.
  4. Select the desired bending option from the toolbar and adjust the settings to your liking.
  5. Click on the “Apply” button and see your models come to life with stunning bends.

In Conclusion

Bending models in Sketchup opens up a whole new world of design possibilities. Whether you choose to utilize the built-in Follow Me tool, explore advanced options with Curviloft, or dive into the vast realm of Sketchup plugins like FredoScale, there is no shortage of ways to achieve stunning bends in your models. So go ahead, experiment with these techniques, and let your creativity soar!