Google SketchUp 3D Modeling Software

[liquid]

Thought I'd show off Google's newest free offering: SketchUp

http://sketchup.google.com/index.html

To quote them: "SketchUp is a simple but powerful tool for quickly and easily creating, viewing and modifying your 3D ideas."

I installed it the other night and just started playing with it today as I wanted to model my 80 gal tank that I someday will setup after my house move. Here's the result (attachment).

IMO it's a pretty nice package for the person that just wants to do a bit of modeling and doesn't want to take the time to learn Blender3D, Maya, Lightwave, etc.

Enjoy!

Shane

 

[Anonymous]

Does it have limitations?

Such as only 30 days or no printing or anything like that?

Thought I'd ask before I install it...

 

[liquid]

It's free for your usage. The Pro version adds the following features that aren't available w/ the free version:

* Print and export raster images at higher-than-screen resolution.

* Access to the following 3D export formats: DWG, DXF, 3DS, OBJ, XSI, VRML and FBX.

* Export animations and walkthroughs as MOV (Mac) or AVI (Windows) files.

* Use the Sandbox Tools (for organic modeling of terrain, etc) and the Film & Stage Tools (for pre-viz work).

* Have access to free email tech support for two years from purchase.

Shane

 

[Anonymous]

Pretty neat. Is it easy to create cyliner and sphere? I guess I will give it a try. 8)

 

[liquid]

Yep you can easily create both. A sphere is a bit more involved than a cylinder but it's done easy enough:

http://sketchup.google.com/support/bin/ ... swer=39024

Shane

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks Shane, I think I am going to give it a try

 

[smit1260]

I will be dowloading it as soon as they finish the mac version.

 

[Anonymous]

Been using it for over a year, quite a fun program with a very easy learning curve. Easier then the three years it took me to master 3d Studio :roll:

 

[liquid]

The easy learning curve is what I like the most. I worked a bit with Lightwave for a while and while it's an excellent program it was just too much to do the basic modeling I wanted. I've wanted to mess a bit with Blender3D but just haven't had the time yet.

Shane

 

[smit1260]

I will try it as soon as they have the mac version up and running

 

[steene_c]

I have been useing the program for some time know with my tank to see the before i do them it is a good 3d program here is some links to my 3d modeling I have done with it http://www.reefs.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=83995 // http://www.reefs.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=83736 // right now i am working on a tank and will have the diy up soon