When it comes to creating 3D models in Sketchup, one of the fundamental skills you need to master is filleting corners. Filleting a corner involves rounding off the sharp edges of a model, giving it a more polished and realistic appearance. In this tutorial, we will explore the step-by-step process of filleting a corner in Sketchup.
Step 1: Select the Edge
To start filleting a corner in Sketchup, you first need to select the edge that you want to round off. Simply click on the edge using the Select tool (shortcut: press ‘Spacebar’ and then ‘S’).
Step 2: Activate the Follow Me Tool
With the edge selected, activate the Follow Me tool by navigating to ‘Tools’ in the menu bar, then selecting ‘Follow Me’. Alternatively, you can use the shortcut key ‘F’.
Step 3: Create a Profile
Once you have activated the Follow Me tool, you need to create a profile that will serve as the shape of your filleted corner. To do this, draw a simple rectangle or any other closed shape perpendicular to your selected edge.
- Note: It is important that your profile intersects with both ends of the selected edge.
Step 4: Extrude Along Path
After creating your profile shape, simply click on it with the Follow Me tool. Sketchup will then extrude your profile along the path of your selected edge, automatically rounding off the corner.
- Note: You can also hold down ‘Ctrl’ (Windows) or ‘Option’ (Mac) while clicking on your profile to create a copy of the filleted corner without removing the original edge.
Step 5: Cleanup and Refinement
Once the filleted corner is created, you may need to clean up and refine it further. Use the Eraser tool (shortcut: ‘E’) to remove any unnecessary geometry or unwanted edges that were created during the filleting process.
Tips for Filleting Corners in Sketchup:
- Experiment with Different Profiles: Don’t limit yourself to using simple rectangles as profiles. Try using circles, polygons, or even custom shapes to achieve more complex and interesting filleted corners.
- Use Guides for Precision: If you need precise measurements for your filleted corner, utilize Sketchup’s guide tools. You can create temporary guidelines to help you position and align your profile shape accurately.
Filleting corners in Sketchup is a vital technique that adds a touch of realism and professionalism to your 3D models. With the step-by-step process outlined above, you can easily master this skill and elevate the quality of your designs. So go ahead, practice, and start creating beautifully rounded corners in Sketchup!