So, I’ve been using Sktchup freebie for a couple of years.
Mostly to get a 3-d view of interesting interfaces in my designs.
So, today I upgraded to Pro hoping some of my nagging complaints would go away… not!
My background is as a CAD/CAM programmer over the last 30 years. I’ve used myriad systems of several variations so I’m pretty well versed in 3-D design using computer based systems.
That said I cant seem to crack the Sketchup nut!
I am used to being able to do boolean operations between solid bodies and near as I can tell this is not something the tool does?
Also, I can dimension like crazy but no matter what I try I cannot get my Layout part to print scaled 1:1.
Amy I nuts or does this tool perform basic CAD functions in a way I cannot understand?
For close to $300 USD per year I kinda had some higher expectations…
Also I seem to have no control of the dimension text and leader in layout. I want my 1/8″ dimension arrows out, leader left and test left justified off the leader.
Replies
SketchUp is different in many ways from CAD programs and trying to make it work in exactly the same way will lead you to frustration. Take time to learn to use the tools correctly and you'll find it's actually quite capable and powerful.
"I am used to being able to do boolean operations between solid bodies and near as I can tell this is not something the tool does?"
Yes. There are Boolean tools available in SketchUp Pro and Shop. They are called 'Solid Tools'. There are also a couple of extensions that provide Boolean operations but add a couple of advantages.
"Am I nuts or does this tool perform basic CAD functions in a way I cannot understand?"
As I already wrote, it does work differently in many respects but it does work. It sounds like you are expecting it to work exactly like AutoCAD. If that's the case you would be disappointed. Learn to use the tools that it has and you can model anything. If you want some examples here's a link to some of the stuff I've modeled in SketchUp. https://flic.kr/s/aHsjpUPdd6
"Also I seem to have no control of the dimension text and leader in layout. I want my 1/8″ dimension arrows out, leader left and test left justified off the leader."
You should be able to get what you want with the settings in LayOut.
It worth your time to go through the SketchUp Fundamentals at https://learn.sketchup.com/
Have a look at the Design. Click. Build. blog here on the FineWoodworking site. If you want some personal assistance, get in touch with me through the blog. https://www.finewoodworking.com/blog/design-click-build
-Dave
Thanks for the learning material pointers.
I'll spend some time.
good to hear about the boolean tools as that is typically the way I think and design.
BTW, the tools I am used to are typically a higher-end than Autocad but the principles of sketching, constraining and extrude/sweep/unite/subtract seem to be pretty universal in my world but these are pretty pricey tools for sure.
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled