Stretching objects using the Move Tool is an essential skill in SketchUp. It allows you to resize and reshape your models with ease. In this tutorial, we will walk you through the steps of stretching objects using the Move Tool in SketchUp.
Step 1: Select the Move Tool
To begin, select the Move Tool from the toolbar. You can also press the M key on your keyboard as a shortcut.
Step 2: Click on the Object to be Stretched
Click on the object that you want to stretch. This will place a selection box around it, indicating that it is ready to be manipulated.
Step 3: Activate Stretch Mode
To activate stretch mode, simply position your cursor over one of the handles on the selection box. The cursor will change to a double-headed arrow, indicating that you are now in stretch mode.
Step 4: Stretching Along One Axis
If you want to stretch your object along a specific axis, move your cursor over one of the colored axis lines that are perpendicular to the selected handle. For example:
- X-Axis: Red line
- Y-Axis: Green line
- Z-Axis: Blue line
Click and drag along one of these colored axis lines to stretch your object along that specific axis.
Step 5: Stretching Along Multiple Axes Simultaneously
If you want to stretch your object along multiple axes simultaneously, simply click and drag on any handle without moving your cursor over the colored axis lines. This will allow you to resize your object proportionally along all axes.
Step 6: Constrain Stretching Proportions
If you want to maintain the proportions of your object while stretching, hold down the Shift key on your keyboard after activating stretch mode. This will constrain the stretching proportions and prevent distortion.
Step 7: Release the Mouse Button
Once you have achieved the desired size and shape for your object, simply release the mouse button to complete the stretching operation.
Additional Tips:
- To undo a stretch: Press Ctrl + Z (Windows) or Cmd + Z (Mac) on your keyboard.
- To repeat a stretch: Press Ctrl + Shift + Z (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + Z (Mac) on your keyboard.
- To enter exact dimensions: Type in numerical values while stretching to achieve precise measurements.
- To stretch multiple objects simultaneously: Hold down the Ctrl/Cmd key and select multiple objects before activating stretch mode.
Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to stretch objects using the Move Tool in SketchUp.
By mastering this technique, you have unlocked a powerful tool that will greatly enhance your modeling capabilities. Happy stretching!