Virtual prototyping
March 13, 2023 2:23 PM Subscribe
I want to learn how to use SketchUp so I can prototype stuff I want to make virtually before committing in real life. Is SketchUp the best? How do I go about learning it?
Yes, ⬆️ And what platform do you want to use it on? Is in-browser ok? Computer? Tablet with/without stylus?
(I like Shapr3D for light nonparametric CADing with iPad+Apple Pencil personally.)
posted by supercres at 3:06 PM on March 13, 2023 [2 favorites]
(I like Shapr3D for light nonparametric CADing with iPad+Apple Pencil personally.)
posted by supercres at 3:06 PM on March 13, 2023 [2 favorites]
SketchUp is a good surface modeler (not a parametric modeler) for hobbyists. The desktop version works with my SpaceNavigator and you can get a lot done in the free trial period. The free web version is compatible with the same file format as the desktop version.
Have you been through the getting started guide and the SketchUp Fundamentals course?
If you are thinking of modeling shapes for 3d printing, Blender is another good option for hobbyists.
posted by Phssthpok at 4:50 PM on March 13, 2023 [1 favorite]
Have you been through the getting started guide and the SketchUp Fundamentals course?
If you are thinking of modeling shapes for 3d printing, Blender is another good option for hobbyists.
posted by Phssthpok at 4:50 PM on March 13, 2023 [1 favorite]
Phssthpok has the right idea, go through the fundamentals / getting started free courses, then the idea behind the tools will click and the power of the program really takes off. Components are really powerful.
posted by nickggully at 7:37 PM on March 13, 2023
posted by nickggully at 7:37 PM on March 13, 2023
I'm no expert, but I've recently started goofing around in TinkerCAD and find it a lot more approachable than SketchUp.
posted by adamrice at 8:23 PM on March 13, 2023 [1 favorite]
posted by adamrice at 8:23 PM on March 13, 2023 [1 favorite]
TinkerCad is a great introduction to 3d. The tutorials take place in the software itself.
I used to teach small classes with it and was always impressed by how accessible it was to new learners.
Blender is powerful, but I would start with TinkerCad to get acclimated to 3d.
If you do try Blender, check out Grant Abbitt's channel. He explains things well and has an easy pace that is great to follow along with.
Learn Blender 3 for Complete Beginners
I also like Josh Gambrell for hard surface modeling.
Hard Surface Modeling JUMPSTART for Blender!
I don't do parametric modeling or CAD, but this list of programs is a place to good start.
posted by smoochbelly at 3:47 PM on March 15, 2023 [3 favorites]
I used to teach small classes with it and was always impressed by how accessible it was to new learners.
Blender is powerful, but I would start with TinkerCad to get acclimated to 3d.
If you do try Blender, check out Grant Abbitt's channel. He explains things well and has an easy pace that is great to follow along with.
Learn Blender 3 for Complete Beginners
I also like Josh Gambrell for hard surface modeling.
Hard Surface Modeling JUMPSTART for Blender!
I don't do parametric modeling or CAD, but this list of programs is a place to good start.
posted by smoochbelly at 3:47 PM on March 15, 2023 [3 favorites]
So - I have only started doing some 3d design since last fall when I aquired my first 3d printer.
And - I have installed plenty of formal/free CAD software, but you know what I keep turning back to?
Tinkercad
It is surprising how far you can take it, once you learn about it's features like "Mirror" and "Ruler", adding a workplane for alignment, etc.
But - here are some other alternatives (Sketchup is included)
Am attempting to learn a little BlocksCad 3d - which is more parametric and logic based than Tinkercad.
posted by rozcakj at 10:30 AM on March 17, 2023
And - I have installed plenty of formal/free CAD software, but you know what I keep turning back to?
Tinkercad
It is surprising how far you can take it, once you learn about it's features like "Mirror" and "Ruler", adding a workplane for alignment, etc.
But - here are some other alternatives (Sketchup is included)
Am attempting to learn a little BlocksCad 3d - which is more parametric and logic based than Tinkercad.
posted by rozcakj at 10:30 AM on March 17, 2023
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posted by amaire at 2:35 PM on March 13, 2023 [2 favorites]