FredoScale is a powerful plugin for SketchUp that allows you to easily scale and deform objects in your 3D designs. Whether you need to resize an object, stretch it, or bend it, FredoScale offers a wide range of tools to help you achieve the desired effect. In this tutorial, we will explore the various features of FredoScale and learn how to use them effectively.
Installation:
Before we dive into the features of FredoScale, let’s quickly go over the installation process. To install FredoScale, follow these simple steps:
1. Download the FredoScale plugin from the official SketchUcation Plugin Store or other reputable sources. 2. Open SketchUp and navigate to the “Window” menu. 3. Select “Extension Manager” from the drop-down menu.
4. Click on the “Install Extension” button. 5. Locate the downloaded FredoScale plugin file on your computer and click “Open”. 6. Once installed, you should see a new toolbar or menu option for FredoScale in SketchUp.
Basic Scaling:
To start using FredoScale, select an object in your SketchUp model that you want to scale. With the object selected, click on the FredoScale toolbar or navigate to the FredoScale menu option.
- Select Scale Mode: In the FredoScale menu, you can choose between various scaling modes such as Uniform Scale, Non-Uniform Scale, Radial Scale, and more.
- Set Scale Origin: Next, set a reference point for scaling by clicking on any point on your object.
- Adjust Scaling Handles: Once you’ve set the scale origin, adjust the scaling handles that appear around your object to resize it proportionally or non-uniformly.
- Apply the Scale: After you’re satisfied with the scaling, click on the “Apply” button in the FredoScale toolbar or menu to finalize the changes.
Advanced Deformation:
FredoScale goes beyond basic scaling and offers advanced deformation options to give your objects a more organic and customized look. Let’s explore some of these features:
Twist:
The Twist feature allows you to rotate an object around its axis while scaling it. To use this feature:
- Select Twist Mode: In the FredoScale menu, choose the Twist mode.
- Set Twist Origin: Click on a point on your object where you want the twist to originate from.
- Adjust Twisting Handles: Manipulate the twisting handles that appear around your object to control the amount and direction of twist.
- Apply the Twist: Once you’re satisfied with the twist effect, click on “Apply” to apply it to your object.
Bend:
The Bend feature allows you to deform an object by bending it along a specific axis. Follow these steps to use this feature:
- Select Bend Mode: Choose Bend mode from the FredoScale menu.
- Select Bend Axis: Click on an edge or line in your object that will serve as the bending axis.
- Adjust Bending Handles: Manipulate the bending handles that appear around your object to control the amount and direction of bend.
- Apply the Bend: Click on “Apply” to apply the bend deformation to your object.
Subdivide:
The Subdivide feature allows you to divide an object into smaller segments, giving you more control over its shape. Here’s how to use it:
- Select Subdivide Mode: Choose Subdivide mode from the FredoScale menu.
- Select Subdivide Points: Click on the points where you want to add subdivisions on your object.
- Adjust Subdivision Handles: Manipulate the subdivision handles that appear around your object to control the size and position of the subdivisions.
- Apply the Subdivisions: Once you’re satisfied with the subdivision placement, click on “Apply” to add them to your object.
With these basic and advanced features of FredoScale, you can easily scale and deform objects in SketchUp. Experiment with different modes and settings to achieve unique and creative designs. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to explore and have fun with FredoScale!