A List of the Top 12 Free SketchUp Tools for Advanced Modeling

SketchUp is a very popular digital design program around the world. It uses to create models at all levels of architecture. For beginners learning 3D modeling, SketchUp is a great tool. Models can create with SketchUp plug-ins for professionals.

There are still many ways to make SketchUp more efficient. Some extension warehouses offer more popular plug-ins and extensions than others. Among the most commonly used plug-ins by interior designers are the following.

1. Memory Copy

The tool can help you duplicate your last move not only by copying geometry but by copying also transformations, like resizing or rotating it after you make a change. The construction of sweeping staircases is a snap with this method.

2. Helix along Curve

Easily create helix tubes along a predefined path with Helix along Curve, one of the most innovative plug-ins on this list. The Bezier Spline and Component Stringer add-ons also allow you to create a perfect chain with individual links.

3. Sub-D & Quad- Face Tools

Sub-D can be used together with the Quad-Face Tools plug-in to create curvilinear volumes, such as the one above, with rational, clean subdivisions. Dome and shell models can simplify by doing this.

4. Edge Tools

Using Edge Tool, you can simplify imported DWG site plans easily, split faces into multiple planes, and even highlight imperfections in your model so you can fix them swiftly.

5. Sketchy FFD

The Sketchy FFD program generates curved shapes from gridded surfaces by adding Control Cages to the objects. With this technology, it is possible to weave organic shapes like domes and arches from elements or mesh.

6. JHS Power Bar

This plug-in has many functions that include generating arrays that follow a path, which is a highly useful feature. Balustrades make with a series of components that arrange into a predefined arrangement.

7. Follow Me & Rotate

With Wiki's amazing plug-in, which combines a rotating action with the Follow Me tool, you can create rope, twine, and ornate balusters.

8. Multiple Offsets

This add-on allows you to offset many faces of an object at once, so you can create complex, coffer-like forms that would be ideal for your Pantheon dome model.

9. Section Cut Face

With this useful plug-in, you can easily add faces to your section planes. In addition to being able to change the color of the face for presentation purposes, you can have it updated automatically in real-time as you edit your model.

10. CurviLoft

It is possible to create curvilinear and organic volumes by using Fredo6's Curviloft, a hugely popular product.

11. CLF Shape Bender

CLF Shape Bender is an amazing tool that allows you to bend an entire component or group so you can design curved walls, roofs, and windows, and doors to match your style.

12. Animator

The animator was created by Fredo6 and allows you to create animated parts in SketchUp. Then hit play and watch your dynamic model move. You can move as many frames as you like.

Wrapping it Up

There are those of you who are already familiar with SketchUp, and there are others who are just learning it.

Although SketchUp's built-in tools are quite useful for most everyday tasks, anyone who has used the software regularly knows that several plug-in allow users to create amazingly complex forms and ingenious time-saving workflows.

To learn more, watch the following video tutorial.

Video Source: TheSketchUpEssentials

Making 3D models is easy with SketchUp, and you can express your creativity without sacrificing ease. If you are in a hurry to finish your model, it is a great place to pick up ready-made components.