So, you want to make your SketchUp models look sketchy? Well, you’ve come to the right place!
In this tutorial, we’ll explore various techniques and plugins that will help you achieve that hand-drawn, sketch-like appearance in SketchUp. Let’s dive in!
Plugins for Sketchy Effects
If you’re eager to add a sketchy look to your SketchUp models, there are several plugins available that can assist you in achieving this effect. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular ones:
SU Podium
SU Podium is a powerful rendering plugin that brings photorealistic effects to your SketchUp models. While it primarily focuses on realistic rendering, it also offers a sketchy mode. By enabling this mode, SU Podium can transform your models into a sketched representation, giving them an artistic touch.
SketchFX
If you’re looking for more control over the sketchy effect, SketchFX is an excellent choice. This plugin allows you to customize various aspects of the sketch style, such as line thickness, color variation, and even adding texture overlays. With SketchFX, you can create unique and personalized sketchy looks for your SketchUp models.
Using Textures and Materials
In addition to plugins, another effective way to achieve a sketchy look is by utilizing textures and materials within SketchUp itself. Here’s how:
Hatching Technique
The hatching technique involves using hatch patterns or textures to create shaded areas in your model. By applying these hatch patterns selectively on different surfaces of your model, you can mimic the appearance of hand-drawn sketches. SketchUp provides a range of hatch patterns by default, which you can access through the “Materials” panel.
Line Styles
Another way to create a sketchy look is by customizing the line styles in SketchUp. By default, SketchUp uses solid lines, but you can change them to dashed or dotted lines. Adjusting the line style and thickness can give your models a hand-drawn feel.
Post-Processing in Image Editing Software
If you want to take your sketchy look even further, you can enhance it using image editing software. Here’s how:
Exporting Images
First, export your SketchUp model as an image file (e.g., PNG or JPEG). You can do this by going to “File” > “Export” > “2D Graphic”. Save the exported image to your computer.
Adding Filters and Effects
Next, open the exported image in an image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or GIMP. Use filters and effects like Gaussian Blur, Noise, and Pencil Sketch to enhance the sketchy appearance. Experiment with different settings until you achieve the desired effect.
In Conclusion
Making your SketchUp models look sketchy is a fantastic way to add an artistic touch to your designs. Whether you prefer using plugins like SU Podium and SketchFX, leveraging textures and line styles within SketchUp itself, or enhancing the effect further with image editing software – there are plenty of options available for you to explore.
Remember, don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your specific project. So go ahead, unleash your creativity, and make your SketchUp models look sketchy!