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What is Sketchup? Google Sketchup is one of the easiest 3D modeling programs out there. Not only is great for beginners and pro’s alike, but it also comes with a free version that is jammed packed with features. Sketchup is perfect for the DIY designer, maker, inventor, and woodworker.

One of the coolest features about Sketchup, besides its ease of use, is the built in 3D Warehouse. The 3D Warehouse allows anyone using Sketchup to quickly search and download pre-made 3D models directly into their scene. These allow you to quickly mock-up designs and test your model in many different ways.

Designing a new desk? Download and populate your desk with a LCD monitor, computer speakers, books, a computer chair and a person to sit at the desk! It makes visualizing your creation so much easier and allows you to see potential mistakes and improvements that you might not have noticed until after you built the actual project.

Sketchup also has the added benefit of being able to take your model and transitioning it to the Shopbot CNC machine, laser cutter and 3D printer.

What will be covered in this class?

By the end of the class you will have all you need to confidently start up Sketchup on your own and start working on your own projects.  All the basics will be covered. We’ll go through the process I would normally use to prototype a new piece of furniture.

Who is this class for?

If you’ve ever been intrigued by 3D modeling but thought it looked way too hard to dive into, this class is for you. Whether you’re a product designer, woodworker,  architect or just like creating 3D environments, Google Sketchup is in my opinion, the easiest to use and best program to get started with.

Requirements- Basic computer knowledge.  If you know how to download, install and then run Google Sketchup, you should be fine.

Though it’s not a requirement, I highly recommend you bring your laptop to follow along.  Also, a regular corded or cordless mouse is recommended and will make your Sketchup life MUCH easier.

Computers are not provided.

If you do bring your laptop, please have the latest version of Google Sketchup 8 (free) installed and ready to go.

About the Instructor

Matt Hatcher is a lifetime woodworker whose career includes everything from furnishings to high-end cabinetry.  Matt is a studio resident and shop manager here at the CIF, where he runs his digital game asset business Indie Game Stock.