In this tutorial, we will learn how to create a dome in Sketchup Online. Sketchup is a powerful 3D modeling tool that allows you to create various shapes and structures.
A dome is a curved architectural element that is often used in buildings and structures for its aesthetic appeal and structural strength. Follow the steps below to create your own dome in Sketchup Online.
Step 1: Open Sketchup Online
To get started, open your web browser and navigate to the Sketchup Online website. If you don’t have an account, sign up for a free account or log in if you already have one.
Step 2: Create a New Project
Once you are logged in, click on the “New Project” button to create a new project. Give your project a name and choose the desired template based on your preferences.
Click on “Create” to start working on your project.
Step 3: Draw a Circle
To create the base of our dome, we will start by drawing a circle. Click on the “Circle” tool from the toolbar or press the “C” key on your keyboard.
Click once on the workspace to set the center of the circle, and then move your cursor outward to define the radius of the circle. Click again to complete the circle.
Step 4: Create Vertical Lines
Next, we need to create vertical lines that will form the dome’s structure. Select the “Line” tool from the toolbar or press “L” on your keyboard.
Click at any point along the circumference of the circle you created in step 3, then move your cursor upward and click again to draw a vertical line. Repeat this process around the entire circumference of the circle to create a series of vertical lines.
Step 5: Connect the Lines
Now, we will connect the vertical lines to form the dome’s structure. Select the “Line” tool again and click on the top endpoint of one line. Then, click on the corresponding endpoint of the next line to create a diagonal line between them.
Repeat this process for all pairs of endpoints until all lines are connected, forming a network of triangles. This network will give our dome its shape.
Step 6: Push and Pull
To give our dome some depth, we will use the “Push/Pull” tool. Select the tool from the toolbar or press “P” on your keyboard.
Click on one of the triangular faces created in step 5 and move your cursor upward to extrude it. Continue extruding all triangular faces until your dome has reached the desired height.
Step 7: Smooth Edges
To make our dome look more polished, we can smooth out its edges. Select the “Eraser” tool from the toolbar or press “E” on your keyboard.
Click on any edges you want to smooth out, and Sketchup will automatically soften them for a more rounded appearance.
Step 8: Apply Materials and Textures
To add realism to your dome, you can apply materials and textures to its surfaces. Select the desired face or faces using either the “Select” tool or by triple-clicking on them.
Then, choose a material from Sketchup’s library or import your own custom texture by clicking on “File” > “Import”.
Conclusion:
Creating a dome in Sketchup Online is a straightforward process that involves drawing a circle, connecting lines, and extruding faces. By following these steps and applying materials and textures, you can create stunning domes for your architectural projects.
Have fun exploring the possibilities of Sketchup Online!