How Does Smoove Work in SketchUp?

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SketchUp is a powerful 3D modeling software that offers a wide range of tools and features to create stunning designs. One such feature is Smoove, which allows you to smoothly push and pull geometry in your models. In this article, we will explore how Smoove works in SketchUp and how you can use it to enhance your designs.

What is Smoove?

Smoove is a versatile tool in SketchUp that allows you to easily manipulate the geometry of your models. With Smoove, you can push, pull, and move surfaces smoothly, giving your designs a more organic and natural look.

Using the Smoove Tool

To access the Smoove tool in SketchUp, follow these steps:

  1. Select the “Tools” menu from the menu bar at the top of the SketchUp interface.
  2. Hover over “Sandbox” in the drop-down menu.
  3. Click on “Smoove” in the submenu that appears.

Alternatively, you can also activate the Smoove tool by using its keyboard shortcut: “Ctrl” + “Shift” + “S”.

Using Smoove on Surfaces

Smoove works best on surfaces. To use it on a surface:

  1. Select the surface you want to manipulate by clicking on it with the Select tool (shortcut: “Spacebar”).
  2. Activate the Smoove tool as described earlier.
  3. Click and drag on the selected surface to push or pull it in different directions.
  4. To control the intensity of your manipulations, adjust the “Size” slider in the “Smoove” dialog box that appears.

Using Smoove on Edges

Smoove can also be used on edges to create smooth transitions between different surfaces. To use it on an edge:

  1. Select the edge you want to manipulate by clicking on it with the Select tool (shortcut: “Spacebar”).
  2. Activate the Smoove tool.
  3. Click and drag along the selected edge to smoothly push or pull it.

Tips for Using Smoove Effectively

  • Start with low intensity: When using Smoove for the first time, start with a low intensity setting to get familiar with its effects. You can gradually increase the intensity as you gain more experience.
  • Use reference images: If you are trying to recreate a specific shape or form, it can be helpful to import reference images into SketchUp.

    You can then use Smoove along with other tools to match the desired design.

  • Combine with other tools: Smoove works well in conjunction with other SketchUp tools like Push/Pull and Follow Me. Experiment with combining these tools to achieve complex and intricate designs.

In conclusion, Smoove is a powerful tool in SketchUp that allows you to manipulate geometry smoothly and create organic designs. By understanding how to use Smoove effectively and combining it with other tools, you can take your 3D modeling skills to new heights!