Where Is the Section Tool in SketchUp?

by

Where Is the Section Tool in SketchUp?

If you are new to SketchUp or have recently updated to a newer version, you may be wondering where the section tool is located. The section tool is an essential feature in SketchUp that allows you to cut through 3D models to create cross-sections and reveal the internal details of your design. In this tutorial, we will explore how to find and use the section tool in SketchUp.

Finding the Section Tool

In older versions of SketchUp, the section tool was easily accessible from the toolbar. However, in recent updates, it has been moved to a different location. To find the section tool:

  1. Open SketchUp and navigate to the “View” menu located at the top of the screen.
  2. From the dropdown menu, select “Toolbars.”
  3. A new window will appear with a list of available toolbars.
  4. Scroll down until you find “Section Plane” and make sure it is checked.

Once you have enabled the section plane toolbar, you will see a small icon with a diagonal arrow pointing downwards. This icon represents the section tool in SketchUp.

Using the Section Tool

Now that you have found and enabled the section tool, let’s explore how to use it effectively:

Create a Section Plane

To create a section plane:

  1. Select the “Section Plane” icon from your toolbar. Your cursor will change into a crosshair symbol.
  2. Click on any surface or edge of your model where you want to place the section plane.
  3. Drag the section plane along the desired axis to position it accurately.
  4. Click again to place the section plane.

The section plane will cut through your model, creating a cross-section and revealing the internal details. You can create multiple section planes to cut through different parts of your design.

Adjusting the Section Plane

Once you have created a section plane, you may need to adjust its position or orientation:

  1. Select the section plane by clicking on it.
  2. You will see several handles or control points on the section plane.
  3. Click and drag these handles to move or rotate the section plane as desired.

This allows you to fine-tune the position of the section plane and focus on specific areas of your model.

Hiding or Unhiding Sections

If you want to temporarily hide a section without deleting it:

  1. Select the “Section Plane” icon from your toolbar.
  2. Right-click on the desired section plane in your model.
  3. From the context menu, select “Hide Section Plane.”

The hidden section will no longer be visible, allowing you to view your model without any obstructions. To unhide a hidden section, simply repeat the process and select “Unhide Section Plane” from the context menu.

In Conclusion

The section tool is an invaluable feature in SketchUp that allows you to create cross-sections and reveal hidden details within your models. By following this tutorial, you should now be able to find and use the section tool effectively. Remember to experiment with different positions and orientations of section planes to achieve the desired results in your designs.