Where Is Extrusion Tools in SketchUp?
If you’re new to SketchUp or just getting started with 3D modeling, you may be wondering where to find the extrusion tools. Extrusion is a fundamental concept in 3D modeling, as it allows you to create depth and volume by extending 2D shapes into 3D objects. In SketchUp, extrusion is a breeze once you know where to look.
Finding the Extrusion Tools
In SketchUp, the extrusion tools can be found in the Tools menu. To access this menu, simply click on the Tools option in the top toolbar. Once the menu expands, scroll down until you find the Extrude tool category.
The Extrude tool category contains several different types of extrusion tools that you can use depending on your needs. Let’s take a closer look at each of these tools:
Push/Pull Tool
The most commonly used extrusion tool in SketchUp is the Push/Pull tool. This tool allows you to select a face or multiple faces and then drag them along a direction to create an extruded shape. To use the Push/Pull tool, simply click on it in the Extrude tool category or press its corresponding shortcut key (P).
To perform an extrusion using the Push/Pull tool, follow these steps:
- Select the face(s) you want to extrude by clicking on them.
- Click and hold on one of the selected faces.
- Drag the mouse in the desired direction to create the extrusion.
- Release the mouse button to complete the extrusion.
Follow Me Tool
The Follow Me tool is another powerful extrusion tool in SketchUp. Unlike the Push/Pull tool, which extrudes faces in a linear fashion, the Follow Me tool allows you to create complex shapes by extruding along a path. To access this tool, click on it in the Extrude tool category or use its shortcut key (F).
To use the Follow Me tool, follow these steps:
- Select the face you want to extrude.
- Select or draw a path along which you want to extrude the face.
- Click on the selected face with the Follow Me tool.
- The face will be extruded along the path, creating a complex shape.
Sandbox Tools (From Contours)
If you’re working with topographical or landscape models, you may find SketchUp’s Sandbox tools helpful for creating extrusions from contours. To access these tools, click on “Sandbox” in the top menu and select “From Contours.”
The “From Contours” option allows you to import contour lines from an image or draw them manually using SketchUp’s line and arc tools. Once you have your contours defined, you can use SketchUp’s Sandbox tools to generate smooth terrain surfaces with customizable heights and slopes.
In Conclusion
Now that you know where to find the extrusion tools in SketchUp, you can start creating 3D objects with depth and volume. Whether you’re using the Push/Pull tool for simple extrusions or exploring more advanced techniques with the Follow Me tool and Sandbox tools, SketchUp offers a wide range of options for bringing your designs to life.
So go ahead, experiment with different extrusion techniques, and let your creativity soar in SketchUp!