I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to actually
learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've been spending
some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. Let me
give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. Each of
those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1" wider which
means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons longer I can't scale
the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the legs, then scale the aprons
and move the legs back. Not too bad on this but on more complex things it
could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

--

dadiOH
____________________________

Winters getting colder? Tired of the rat race?
Taxes out of hand? Maybe just ready for a change?
Check it out... http://www.floridaloghouse.net

On 04/22/2013 04:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:
I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to actually
learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've been spending
some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. Let me
give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. Each of
those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1" wider which
means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons longer I can't scale
the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the legs, then scale the aprons
and move the legs back. Not too bad on this but on more complex things it
could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

components.


--
"Socialism is a philosophy of failure,the creed of ignorance, and the
gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery"
-Winston Churchill

On 4/22/2013 6:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:
I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to actually
learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've been spending
some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. Let me
give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. Each of
those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1" wider which
means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons longer I can't scale
the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the legs, then scale the aprons
and move the legs back. Not too bad on this but on more complex things it
could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Yes

OK first off be certain you are using the latest version, you stating
that you have had the program a number of years indicates you may be
using one of the older versions which IMHO we more difficult to master.

By entity I suppose you mean that you made each separate item in to an
actual component.

Don't scale, simply use the push pull tool to lengthen or shorten the
end that you want to be longer or shorter, do the same for the apron and
top. Start the push pull tool in the direction that you want it to go,
don't worry about how far you drag it, just go in the direction you want
to go, than type in the distance you want to add or subtract. then
move you legs.

NOW if your legs are reshaping when you are trying to adjust other
pieces that would indicate that your entities are not components.

Once you make a group of lines into a component they will no longer
change unless you edit the component. To edit, select the component by
clicking on it and then double click the selection or right click and
select edit component. An outline of the defined area of the component
will form around the component and you can then make changes, like using
the push pull tool to change the thickness, width, or length of a component.


NOTE. sometimes components are difficult to edit where they are placed
in a drawing. Simply select that component and copy it to an area that
would make it more accessible, make your modifications and they will
also show up on the original component. Complete the modification and
delete the copy.

On Apr 22, 7:24*pm, "dadiOH" wrote:
I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to actually
learn to use it. *Due primarily to various posts here, I've been spending
some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. *Let me
give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. *Each of
those items is an "entity". *I decide that I want my table 1" wider which
means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons longer *I can't scale
the aprons, deforms the legs. *I could move the legs, then scale the aprons
and move the legs back. *Not too bad on this but on more complex things it
could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Please don't mistake me for someone who knows what he's talking about;
I'm just about exactly as experienced as you are.

I had drawn a very simple farmhouse-style table as a first sketchup
project also. I justr tried doing exactly what you are attempting.
Here's how I did it, shown in four exported images:\

http://www.flickr.com/photos/gdguari...n/photostream/

Use the right arrow to scroll through the set. Please ignore the white-
shaded parts in the background.

First I selected the table top. The top is itself composed of four
"sub-components" (my own term - I have no idea what the proper word
is), four 1x6 boards. I discovered that you could group components
into larger multi-piece assemblies at some point.

With the entire table top selected, I used Resize to stretch it. When
I did it originally, I grabbed one of the handles on the top edge.
This made the task harder, as I was then able to stretch the top in
two dimensions at once: horizontal and vertical. I typed in scale
numbers of "1.5,1" to enlarge the top by a factor of 1.5 in length
while keeping the thickness the same. A better idea (which I just
checked) would have been to grab the handle in the center
(horizontally and vertically). Then I'd be changing one dimension
only; the length.

Then I selected a pair of opposing apron pieces (see pictures) and
stretched them simultaneously. I did this by eye. As the entry box
just has a scale "factor", I think I'd have needed to draw a temporary
line where I wanted the two apron pieces to stretch to in order to get
them to be an exact length.

Lastly, I selected two of the legs and the apron piece that joins
them. I used "move" to drag that assembly to meet the lengthened side
apron pieces. This I was able to do exactly, making two mating corners
meet.

Now all of this was made a little easier by the simplicity of the
design; it has no mitered corners. (it's for a stage prop). I just
confirmed a suspicion I had. I drew a "board" with corners mitered at
some angle. I then made a component of it and tried to stretch it
horizontally. Sure enough, the angle changed, as would be expected
since the program is essentially stretching (or compacting) the
lengths of the two faces by the same factor.

I share your view that calling Sketchup "intuitive" is only partly
accurate, at least for me. At my current novice stage I expend a lot
of brainpower trying to find clever ways to "trick" the program into
doing what I want.

On Apr 22, 7:40*pm, Leon lcb11211@swbelldotnet wrote:
On 4/22/2013 6:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:







I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to actually
learn to use it. *Due primarily to various posts here, I've been spending
some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. *Let me
give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. *Each of
those items is an "entity". *I decide that I want my table 1" wider which
means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons longer *I can't scale
the aprons, deforms the legs. *I could move the legs, then scale the aprons
and move the legs back. *Not too bad on this but on more complex things it
could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Yes

OK first off be certain you are using the latest version, you stating
that you have had the program a number of years indicates you may be
using one of the older versions which IMHO we more difficult to master.

By entity I suppose you mean that you made each separate item in to an
actual component.

Don't scale, simply use the push pull tool to lengthen or shorten the
end that you want to be longer or shorter, do the same for the apron and
top. *Start the push pull tool in the direction that you want it to go,
don't worry about how far you drag it, just go in the direction you want
to go, *than type in the distance you want to add or subtract.

I'd like you to flesh that out a bit. I tried it and found that
sketchup would not allow me to push-pull faces of a component. To be
sure, I drew a rectangle and "pulled" it into a box. At that point I
was able to push or pull any surface. I then made the box a component,
after which I could not use the push-pull tool on it.

*then
move you legs.

NOW if your legs are reshaping when you are trying to adjust other
pieces that would indicate that your entities are not components.

I found that out the hard way a week or two ago. Yes, anything you
don't want to be deformed needs to be a component.

Once you make a group of lines into a component they will no longer
change unless you edit the component. *To edit, select the component by
clicking on it and then double click the selection or right click and
select edit component. An outline of the defined area of the component
will form around the component and you can then make changes, like using
the push pull tool to change the thickness, width, or length of a component.

Greg Guarino wrote:
On Apr 22, 7:40 pm, Leon lcb11211@swbelldotnet wrote:
On 4/22/2013 6:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:







I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to actually
learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've been spending
some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. Let me
give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. Each of
those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1" wider which
means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons longer I can't scale
the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the legs, then scale the aprons
and move the legs back. Not too bad on this but on more complex things it
could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Yes

OK first off be certain you are using the latest version, you stating
that you have had the program a number of years indicates you may be
using one of the older versions which IMHO we more difficult to master.

By entity I suppose you mean that you made each separate item in to an
actual component.

Don't scale, simply use the push pull tool to lengthen or shorten the
end that you want to be longer or shorter, do the same for the apron and
top. Start the push pull tool in the direction that you want it to go,
don't worry about how far you drag it, just go in the direction you want
to go, than type in the distance you want to add or subtract.

I'd like you to flesh that out a bit. I tried it and found that
sketchup would not allow me to push-pull faces of a component. To be
sure, I drew a rectangle and "pulled" it into a box. At that point I
was able to push or pull any surface. I then made the box a component,
after which I could not use the push-pull tool on it.

then
move you legs.

NOW if your legs are reshaping when you are trying to adjust other
pieces that would indicate that your entities are not components.

I found that out the hard way a week or two ago. Yes, anything you
don't want to be deformed needs to be a component.

Actually evert part of the project should be made into a component.

On Apr 23, 12:36*am, Leon wrote:
Greg Guarino wrote:
On Apr 22, 7:40 pm, Leon lcb11211@swbelldotnet wrote:
On 4/22/2013 6:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:

I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to actually
learn to use it. *Due primarily to various posts here, I've been spending
some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. *Let me
give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. *Each of
those items is an "entity". *I decide that I want my table 1" wider which
means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons longer *I can't scale
the aprons, deforms the legs. *I could move the legs, then scale the aprons
and move the legs back. *Not too bad on this but on more complex things it
could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Yes

OK first off be certain you are using the latest version, you stating
that you have had the program a number of years indicates you may be
using one of the older versions which IMHO we more difficult to master..

By entity I suppose you mean that you made each separate item in to an
actual component.

Don't scale, simply use the push pull tool to lengthen or shorten the
end that you want to be longer or shorter, do the same for the apron and
top. *Start the push pull tool in the direction that you want it to go,
don't worry about how far you drag it, just go in the direction you want
to go, *than type in the distance you want to add or subtract.

I'd like you to flesh that out a bit. I tried it and found that
sketchup would not allow me to push-pull faces of a component. To be
sure, I drew a rectangle and "pulled" it into a box. At that point I
was able to push or pull any surface. I then made the box a component,
after which I could not use the push-pull tool on it.

*then
move you legs.

NOW if your legs are reshaping when you are trying to adjust other
pieces that would indicate that your entities are not components.

I found that out the hard way a week or two ago. Yes, anything you
don't want to be deformed needs to be a component.

Actually evert part of the project should be made into a component.

So what do you do to lengthen a component that has "distinctive" ends?
I just drew an oval, a rectangle with semicircular ends. Then I pulled
it into a "solid" (yes I know it's not really modeled as a solid).
When you lengthen it the semicircles become distorted.

So I drew a "cut line" around the middle of my "solid", exploded it,
and used "move" to drag one of the resultant halves further away. I
intended to then pull the other side to close the gap, but since they
were touching to begin with, Sketchup stretched the other piece to
keep them connected.

It worked, but it was still kind of a pain. If you draw a piece with
box-joint ends, for instance, do you draw the ends and "component"
them separately in case you decide to make the box smaller at a later
time? The same would go for anything non-rectangular, like miters.

On 4/23/2013 6:01 AM, Greg Guarino wrote:
On Apr 23, 12:36 am, Leon wrote:
Greg Guarino wrote:
On Apr 22, 7:40 pm, Leon lcb11211@swbelldotnet wrote:
On 4/22/2013 6:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:

I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to actually
learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've been spending
some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. Let me
give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. Each of
those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1" wider which
means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons longer I can't scale
the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the legs, then scale the aprons
and move the legs back. Not too bad on this but on more complex things it
could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Yes

OK first off be certain you are using the latest version, you stating
that you have had the program a number of years indicates you may be
using one of the older versions which IMHO we more difficult to master.

By entity I suppose you mean that you made each separate item in to an
actual component.

Don't scale, simply use the push pull tool to lengthen or shorten the
end that you want to be longer or shorter, do the same for the apron and
top. Start the push pull tool in the direction that you want it to go,
don't worry about how far you drag it, just go in the direction you want
to go, than type in the distance you want to add or subtract.

I'd like you to flesh that out a bit. I tried it and found that
sketchup would not allow me to push-pull faces of a component. To be
sure, I drew a rectangle and "pulled" it into a box. At that point I
was able to push or pull any surface. I then made the box a component,
after which I could not use the push-pull tool on it.

then
move you legs.

NOW if your legs are reshaping when you are trying to adjust other
pieces that would indicate that your entities are not components.

I found that out the hard way a week or two ago. Yes, anything you
don't want to be deformed needs to be a component.

Actually evert part of the project should be made into a component.

So what do you do to lengthen a component that has "distinctive" ends?
I just drew an oval, a rectangle with semicircular ends. Then I pulled
it into a "solid" (yes I know it's not really modeled as a solid).
When you lengthen it the semicircles become distorted.

So I drew a "cut line" around the middle of my "solid", exploded it,
and used "move" to drag one of the resultant halves further away. I
intended to then pull the other side to close the gap, but since they
were touching to begin with, Sketchup stretched the other piece to
keep them connected.

It worked, but it was still kind of a pain. If you draw a piece with
box-joint ends, for instance, do you draw the ends and "component"
them separately in case you decide to make the box smaller at a later
time? The same would go for anything non-rectangular, like miters.


OK, that is pretty easy, you have to think a little differently.
Instead of pushing or pulling, start by editing the component, then
left click and pull a selection box starting at the "TOP LEFT AND DRAG
TO THE BOTTOM RIGHT". You know, so that only complete lines with in the
selection box are selected, drag the selection box to capture the odd
shaped end and then "Move" that selection of lines, curves, etc the
distance you want to move it/them.

Be sure to use a straight line, a line on the componey, as your point
of reference for showing direction of moving or your result might be
more than just lengthening.

On 4/23/2013 6:01 AM, Greg Guarino wrote:
On Apr 23, 12:36 am, Leon wrote:
Greg Guarino wrote:
On Apr 22, 7:40 pm, Leon lcb11211@swbelldotnet wrote:
On 4/22/2013 6:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:

I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to actually
learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've been spending
some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. Let me
give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. Each of
those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1" wider which
means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons longer I can't scale
the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the legs, then scale the aprons
and move the legs back. Not too bad on this but on more complex things it
could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Yes

OK first off be certain you are using the latest version, you stating
that you have had the program a number of years indicates you may be
using one of the older versions which IMHO we more difficult to master.

By entity I suppose you mean that you made each separate item in to an
actual component.

Don't scale, simply use the push pull tool to lengthen or shorten the
end that you want to be longer or shorter, do the same for the apron and
top. Start the push pull tool in the direction that you want it to go,
don't worry about how far you drag it, just go in the direction you want
to go, than type in the distance you want to add or subtract.

I'd like you to flesh that out a bit. I tried it and found that
sketchup would not allow me to push-pull faces of a component. To be
sure, I drew a rectangle and "pulled" it into a box. At that point I
was able to push or pull any surface. I then made the box a component,
after which I could not use the push-pull tool on it.

then
move you legs.

NOW if your legs are reshaping when you are trying to adjust other
pieces that would indicate that your entities are not components.

I found that out the hard way a week or two ago. Yes, anything you
don't want to be deformed needs to be a component.

Actually evert part of the project should be made into a component.

So what do you do to lengthen a component that has "distinctive" ends?
I just drew an oval, a rectangle with semicircular ends. Then I pulled
it into a "solid" (yes I know it's not really modeled as a solid).
When you lengthen it the semicircles become distorted.

So I drew a "cut line" around the middle of my "solid", exploded it,
and used "move" to drag one of the resultant halves further away. I
intended to then pull the other side to close the gap, but since they
were touching to begin with, Sketchup stretched the other piece to
keep them connected.

It worked, but it was still kind of a pain. If you draw a piece with
box-joint ends, for instance, do you draw the ends and "component"
them separately in case you decide to make the box smaller at a later
time? The same would go for anything non-rectangular, like miters.



OK, that is pretty easy, you have to think a little differently.
Instead of pushing or pulling, start by editing the component, then
left click and pull a selection box starting at the "TOP LEFT AND DRAG
TO THE BOTTOM RIGHT" around the odd shaped end. You know, so that only
complete lines with in the selection box are selected, drag the
selection box to capture the odd shaped end and then "Move" that
selection of lines, curves, etc the distance you want to move it/them.

Be sure to use a straight line, a line on the component that points in
the direction that you want to move the selection, as your point of
reference for showing direction of movement or your result might be more
than just lengthening.

On 4/23/2013 6:01 AM, Greg Guarino wrote:


It worked, but it was still kind of a pain. If you draw a piece with
box-joint ends, for instance, do you draw the ends and "component"
them separately in case you decide to make the box smaller at a later
time? The same would go for anything non-rectangular, like miters.


Miss this second question.

No. Draw your board, and then copy the line that represents the corner
of the board down the end of the board, these will be your yet to be
pulled tails. Pull which ever one you want to pull first then while
still in the push pull command skip the next rectangle and double click
the next, Push/pull will assume the same distance, continue double
clicking every other one.

Again if you want to lengthen or shorten the piece simply drag a
selection box over the tails, top left to bottom right, and move the
selected tail in the direction applicable to make the piece longer or
shorter.


A hint here, when copying the corner line across the end of the board,
copy it one time say 1/2" over and then type in 4x or 5x or 12x and it
will repeat the copy that many times assuming the same spacing used for
the first copy.

Greg Guarino wrote:
On Apr 22, 7:24 pm, "dadiOH" wrote:
I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to
actually learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've
been spending some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't.
Let me give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top.
Each of those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1"
wider which means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons
longer I can't scale the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the
legs, then scale the aprons and move the legs back. Not too bad on
this but on more complex things it could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Please don't mistake me for someone who knows what he's talking about;
I'm just about exactly as experienced as you are.

I had drawn a very simple farmhouse-style table as a first sketchup
project also. I justr tried doing exactly what you are attempting.
Here's how I did it, shown in four exported images:\

http://www.flickr.com/photos/gdguari...n/photostream/

Use the right arrow to scroll through the set. Please ignore the
white- shaded parts in the background.

First I selected the table top. The top is itself composed of four
"sub-components" (my own term - I have no idea what the proper word
is), four 1x6 boards. I discovered that you could group components
into larger multi-piece assemblies at some point.

With the entire table top selected, I used Resize to stretch it. When
I did it originally, I grabbed one of the handles on the top edge.
This made the task harder, as I was then able to stretch the top in
two dimensions at once: horizontal and vertical. I typed in scale
numbers of "1.5,1" to enlarge the top by a factor of 1.5 in length
while keeping the thickness the same. A better idea (which I just
checked) would have been to grab the handle in the center
(horizontally and vertically). Then I'd be changing one dimension
only; the length.

Then I selected a pair of opposing apron pieces (see pictures) and
stretched them simultaneously. I did this by eye. As the entry box
just has a scale "factor", I think I'd have needed to draw a temporary
line where I wanted the two apron pieces to stretch to in order to get
them to be an exact length.

Yeah, that works fine. However, if the legs and aprons had been butted it
would have been a problem

The answer seems to be *COMPONENTS*
_____________

Now all of this was made a little easier by the simplicity of the
design; it has no mitered corners. (it's for a stage prop). I just
confirmed a suspicion I had. I drew a "board" with corners mitered at
some angle. I then made a component of it and tried to stretch it
horizontally. Sure enough, the angle changed, as would be expected
since the program is essentially stretching (or compacting) the
lengths of the two faces by the same factor.

Try this:
1. Make the mitered board
2. Make it a component
3. Position it so you see end, top and an edge
4. Select all
5. Scale using the center "handle" at the acute intersection of end and
edge.
________________

I share your view that calling Sketchup "intuitive" is only partly
accurate, at least for me. At my current novice stage I expend a lot
of brainpower trying to find clever ways to "trick" the program into
doing what I want.

That and trying to again find the way to do something I did previously.

It is an amazing program, though; especially since it enables duffers such
as us to actually draw things. So the basics I find intuitive; the niceties
much less so; eg, which handle on a "scale" does what? True, it tells you
which axes and what points but that means about as much to me - at the
moment - as does a treatise on quantum physics. So *many* handles, so much
to remember

Another occasional difficulty for me is getting a line to go where I want
it. Fortunately, I found the arrow key restraints which help but sometimes
Sketchup seems to want to stick the end point not quite where I want it; the
result is that I wind up with something that is not quite a plane. Or a
plane that is slightly (1/16) off from where I want it to be. I've been
drawing fairly complex large rooms and my solution was to really zoom in so
I can see where stuff is going. Of course, zoomed in like that, I sometimes
get lost in s sea of blue or white, no idea where I am. The solution to
that was to add the "Views" toolbar...clicking one gets me a view that
enables me to orient myself to the axes.

--

dadiOH
____________________________

Winters getting colder? Tired of the rat race?
Taxes out of hand? Maybe just ready for a change?
Check it out... http://www.floridaloghouse.net

dadiOH wrote:
I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to
actually learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've
been spending some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. Let
me give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. Each of
those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1"
wider which means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons
longer I can't scale the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the
legs, then scale the aprons and move the legs back. Not too bad on
this but on more complex things it could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Thanks, people...components seems to be the answer.

--

dadiOH
____________________________

Winters getting colder? Tired of the rat race?
Taxes out of hand? Maybe just ready for a change?
Check it out... http://www.floridaloghouse.net

On 4/23/2013 8:22 AM, dadiOH wrote:
dadiOH wrote:
I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to
actually learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've
been spending some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. Let
me give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. Each of
those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1"
wider which means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons
longer I can't scale the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the
legs, then scale the aprons and move the legs back. Not too bad on
this but on more complex things it could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Thanks, people...components seems to be the answer.



Sketchup should be renamed, Sketching with Components. ;~)

Think of they way you build things in the shop, draw the same way.

On 4/23/2013 12:36 AM, Leon wrote:
I found that out the hard way a week or two ago. Yes, anything you
don't want to be deformed needs to be a component.

Actually evert part of the project should be made into a component.

I understood that concept, by the way. What I found out "the hard way"
was that - to protect your mental health - you really need to convert
each new thing into a component at the *very earliest* opportunity.

I imagine there must be a way to save components for future use. I
haven't looked that up yet.

On 4/23/2013 9:22 AM, dadiOH wrote:
Then I selected a pair of opposing apron pieces (see pictures) and
stretched them simultaneously. I did this by eye. As the entry box
just has a scale "factor", I think I'd have needed to draw a temporary
line where I wanted the two apron pieces to stretch to in order to get
them to be an exact length.

Yeah, that works fine. However, if the legs and aprons had been butted it
would have been a problem

I don't think so. In that case I might have made life easier for myself
by selecting two legs and the horizontal piece between them and moving
them before I stretched the other apron pieces to meet the moved assembly.

The answer seems to be*COMPONENTS*

Yes, that it does.

On 4/23/2013 8:22 AM, dadiOH wrote:
Greg Guarino wrote:
On Apr 22, 7:24 pm, "dadiOH" wrote:
I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to
actually learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've
been spending some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't.
Let me give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top.
Each of those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1"
wider which means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons
longer I can't scale the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the
legs, then scale the aprons and move the legs back. Not too bad on
this but on more complex things it could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Please don't mistake me for someone who knows what he's talking about;
I'm just about exactly as experienced as you are.

I had drawn a very simple farmhouse-style table as a first sketchup
project also. I justr tried doing exactly what you are attempting.
Here's how I did it, shown in four exported images:\

http://www.flickr.com/photos/gdguari...n/photostream/

Use the right arrow to scroll through the set. Please ignore the
white- shaded parts in the background.

First I selected the table top. The top is itself composed of four
"sub-components" (my own term - I have no idea what the proper word
is), four 1x6 boards. I discovered that you could group components
into larger multi-piece assemblies at some point.

With the entire table top selected, I used Resize to stretch it. When
I did it originally, I grabbed one of the handles on the top edge.
This made the task harder, as I was then able to stretch the top in
two dimensions at once: horizontal and vertical. I typed in scale
numbers of "1.5,1" to enlarge the top by a factor of 1.5 in length
while keeping the thickness the same. A better idea (which I just
checked) would have been to grab the handle in the center
(horizontally and vertically). Then I'd be changing one dimension
only; the length.

Then I selected a pair of opposing apron pieces (see pictures) and
stretched them simultaneously. I did this by eye. As the entry box
just has a scale "factor", I think I'd have needed to draw a temporary
line where I wanted the two apron pieces to stretch to in order to get
them to be an exact length.

Yeah, that works fine. However, if the legs and aprons had been butted it
would have been a problem

The answer seems to be *COMPONENTS*
_____________

Now all of this was made a little easier by the simplicity of the
design; it has no mitered corners. (it's for a stage prop). I just
confirmed a suspicion I had. I drew a "board" with corners mitered at
some angle. I then made a component of it and tried to stretch it
horizontally. Sure enough, the angle changed, as would be expected
since the program is essentially stretching (or compacting) the
lengths of the two faces by the same factor.

Try this:
1. Make the mitered board
2. Make it a component
3. Position it so you see end, top and an edge
4. Select all
5. Scale using the center "handle" at the acute intersection of end and
edge.
________________

I share your view that calling Sketchup "intuitive" is only partly
accurate, at least for me. At my current novice stage I expend a lot
of brainpower trying to find clever ways to "trick" the program into
doing what I want.

That and trying to again find the way to do something I did previously.

It is an amazing program, though; especially since it enables duffers such
as us to actually draw things. So the basics I find intuitive; the niceties
much less so; eg, which handle on a "scale" does what? True, it tells you
which axes and what points but that means about as much to me - at the
moment - as does a treatise on quantum physics. So *many* handles, so much
to remember

If this makes you feel any better, I very seldom any more use the scale
tool. Most of what it can do can be done easier in another way. Don't
get me wrong, I used to use the scale tool to create mirror images, now
I use the flip along tool to create mirror images. with the flip along
tool you only have to remember 3 things. ;~)






Another occasional difficulty for me is getting a line to go where I want
it. Fortunately, I found the arrow key restraints which help but sometimes
Sketchup seems to want to stick the end point not quite where I want it; the
result is that I wind up with something that is not quite a plane.

The line will deviate a little most often because you may be trying to
attach it to a location that is close to another snap point, for example
the end of another line or middle of a line. I find it helpful to zoom
in to that point, so that the offending snap points which try to pull
your line towards them, do not have so much influence. Another way is
to extend your line well past that that point and end the line in the
middle of nowhere so to speak. Then select the part of the line that
you extended too far and it should highlight as another separate line,
then Delete that section. Or if the line needs to be a certain length
simply start the line in the correct direction, using the arrow keys to
force it in the correct direction if necessary, and type in your length
and hit return




Or a
plane that is slightly (1/16) off from where I want it to be. I've been
drawing fairly complex large rooms and my solution was to really zoom in so
I can see where stuff is going. Of course, zoomed in like that, I sometimes
get lost in s sea of blue or white, no idea where I am. The solution to
that was to add the "Views" toolbar...clicking one gets me a view that
enables me to orient myself to the axes.

If you get lost because you zoomed in too much, simply click on the
"Previous Icon" this will restore you to the previous view. This icon
looks like a magnifying glass with a blue arrow indicating a counter
clockwise rotation. Think of it as going back in time.

On 4/23/2013 9:24 AM, Greg Guarino wrote:
On 4/23/2013 12:36 AM, Leon wrote:
I found that out the hard way a week or two ago. Yes, anything you
don't want to be deformed needs to be a component.

Actually evert part of the project should be made into a component.

I understood that concept, by the way. What I found out "the hard way"
was that - to protect your mental health - you really need to convert
each new thing into a component at the *very earliest* opportunity.

I imagine there must be a way to save components for future use. I
haven't looked that up yet.



Yes, create the component and name if if you want to find it again. ;~)

After creating the component go to the menu bar and click Window and
select Components.

A Component window should open up with a list of the components in your
drawing. Right click the component and select Save AS. Keep an eye on
where you save it also. IIRC the component is simply saves as a smaller
Sketchup drawing file.

On 4/22/2013 4:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.


Lessons might help.

There is a TON of stuff on youtube and other places including
Sketchup.

http://www.sketchup.com/intl/en/training/online.html

On 4/23/2013 10:31 AM, Pat Barber wrote:
On 4/22/2013 4:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.


Lessons might help.

There is a TON of stuff on youtube and other places including
Sketchup.

http://www.sketchup.com/intl/en/training/online.html



Uhhhhh..these might be better and cheaper:

http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-free-...design-skills/

Leon wrote:
It is an amazing program, though; especially since it enables
duffers such as us to actually draw things. So the basics I find
intuitive; the niceties much less so; eg, which handle on a "scale"
does what? True, it tells you which axes and what points but that
means about as much to me - at the moment - as does a treatise on
quantum physics. So *many* handles, so much to remember

If this makes you feel any better, I very seldom any more use the
scale tool. Most of what it can do can be done easier in another
way. Don't get me wrong, I used to use the scale tool to create
mirror images, now I use the flip along tool to create mirror images.
with the flip along tool you only have to remember 3 things. ;~)

I don't know that it makes me feel better, does give me hope though

As far as "flip along", I haven't yet tried that, will soon. Been flipped
off on occasion though.
_____________

Then select the part of the line that you extended too far and it should
highlight as another separate line, then Delete that section.

Yeah, been doing that, a real help, thanks.
_______________

If you get lost because you zoomed in too much, simply click on the
"Previous Icon" this will restore you to the previous view. This
icon looks like a magnifying glass with a blue arrow indicating a
counter clockwise rotation. Think of it as going back in time.

Very useful info. I'm going to be sob 80 in a few weeks, got something
that will actually hurl me into the past? WAIT!!...not sure I want to go
there.

--

dadiOH
____________________________

Winters getting colder? Tired of the rat race?
Taxes out of hand? Maybe just ready for a change?
Check it out... http://www.floridaloghouse.net

Pat Barber wrote:
On 4/22/2013 4:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.


Lessons might help.

There is a TON of stuff on youtube and other places including
Sketchup.

http://www.sketchup.com/intl/en/training/online.html

Thanks, been watching some.

--

dadiOH
____________________________

Winters getting colder? Tired of the rat race?
Taxes out of hand? Maybe just ready for a change?
Check it out... http://www.floridaloghouse.net

On 4/22/2013 11:36 PM, Leon wrote:
....


Actually evert part of the project should be made into a component.

I've actually played w/ Sketchup very little owing to the one time I
tried it was so frustrating I just gave it up...

I've since seen this in several earlier threads and have realized that
was at least part of the problem...so, w/ that background as utter
novice I'll ask...

So one should then just make either a generic rectangle (or one also w/
thickness for 3D) and call it a "board" and then just take instances of
it and assign a length/width/thickness then join these together to build
something? Does that work?

Or, slightly more complex, say it's a cabinet door...you have a rail and
a style general object that you just set length/width on as well as
adjust the tenon size/thickness (say) and then they can fit together
just as if had one of each in hand?

If that (or a reasonable facsimile thereof) works, then maybe I try
again sometime...meanwhile I just layout dimensions on a cutlist and go
to the shop (_much_ faster ).

--

On 4/23/2013 1:24 PM, dpb wrote:
On 4/22/2013 11:36 PM, Leon wrote:
...


Actually evert part of the project should be made into a component.

I've actually played w/ Sketchup very little owing to the one time I
tried it was so frustrating I just gave it up...

I've since seen this in several earlier threads and have realized that
was at least part of the problem...so, w/ that background as utter
novice I'll ask...

So one should then just make either a generic rectangle (or one also w/
thickness for 3D) and call it a "board" and then just take instances of
it and assign a length/width/thickness then join these together to build
something? Does that work?


You can do that however a generic rectangle/3D board is much easier to
draw than to hunt up and import from your group of saved components.
Add to that it would be easier to draw than to import and edit.

That said if your component is complex it would make a lot of sense to
save the component and import to use and or to edit.




Or, slightly more complex, say it's a cabinet door...you have a rail and
a style general object that you just set length/width on as well as
adjust the tenon size/thickness (say) and then they can fit together
just as if had one of each in hand?

Yes, if you are describing what I mentioned above. If you do not have
to redraw a complex object that saves time and effort. Importing and
editing a saved complex component is much faster that redrawing.


If that (or a reasonable facsimile thereof) works, then maybe I try
again sometime...meanwhile I just layout dimensions on a cutlist and go
to the shop (_much_ faster ).

The beauty to Sketchup is that you can install a plugin, CutList 4.X,
and simply high lite all of your components run the plug in and it will
enter all of that data fore you. This is a common practice for me
however I take the data that CutList 4.x creates and import again
directly in to "CutList Plus" for a more adjustable result.

On 4/23/2013 1:13 PM, dadiOH wrote:
Leon wrote:
It is an amazing program, though; especially since it enables
duffers such as us to actually draw things. So the basics I find
intuitive; the niceties much less so; eg, which handle on a "scale"
does what? True, it tells you which axes and what points but that
means about as much to me - at the moment - as does a treatise on
quantum physics. So *many* handles, so much to remember

If this makes you feel any better, I very seldom any more use the
scale tool. Most of what it can do can be done easier in another
way. Don't get me wrong, I used to use the scale tool to create
mirror images, now I use the flip along tool to create mirror images.
with the flip along tool you only have to remember 3 things. ;~)

I don't know that it makes me feel better, does give me hope though
LOL


As far as "flip along", I haven't yet tried that, will soon. Been flipped
off on occasion though.

Oh you need to jump all over that. LOL Simply right click a component
and choose flip along. Then choose Red, Green, or Blue axis and you
will get a mirror image based on the axis you choose. Choosing the
correct axis takes a little getting used to but once you get it, it is
like riding a bike. Just remember if you choose the wrong one and don't
get the result you wanted type Ctrl Z to undo and try another.



_____________

Then select the part of the line that you extended too far and it should
highlight as another separate line, then Delete that section.

Yeah, been doing that, a real help, thanks.
_______________

If you get lost because you zoomed in too much, simply click on the
"Previous Icon" this will restore you to the previous view. This
icon looks like a magnifying glass with a blue arrow indicating a
counter clockwise rotation. Think of it as going back in time.

Very useful info. I'm going to be sob 80 in a few weeks, got something
that will actually hurl me into the past? WAIT!!...not sure I want to go
there.


80 WOW! You are TOUGH! It was easy being young. ;~)

On 4/23/2013 2:19 PM, Leon wrote:
On 4/23/2013 1:24 PM, dpb wrote:
On 4/22/2013 11:36 PM, Leon wrote:
...


Actually evert part of the project should be made into a component.

I've actually played w/ Sketchup very little owing to the one time I
tried it was so frustrating I just gave it up...

I've since seen this in several earlier threads and have realized that
was at least part of the problem...so, w/ that background as utter
novice I'll ask...

So one should then just make either a generic rectangle (or one also w/
thickness for 3D) and call it a "board" and then just take instances of
it and assign a length/width/thickness then join these together to build
something? Does that work?


You can do that however a generic rectangle/3D board is much easier to
draw than to hunt up and import from your group of saved components. Add
to that it would be easier to draw than to import and edit.

That said if your component is complex it would make a lot of sense to
save the component and import to use and or to edit.




Or, slightly more complex, say it's a cabinet door...you have a rail and
a style general object that you just set length/width on as well as
adjust the tenon size/thickness (say) and then they can fit together
just as if had one of each in hand?

Yes, if you are describing what I mentioned above. If you do not have to
redraw a complex object that saves time and effort. Importing and
editing a saved complex component is much faster that redrawing.

Hmmm....seems that if it were as handy as could be it wouldn't be such
effort to just reset dimensions on a given piece....if it's as simple as
_just_ a board I can see roughly the same as it is same dimensions but
wouldn't seem should be harder.

If that (or a reasonable facsimile thereof) works, then maybe I try
again sometime...meanwhile I just layout dimensions on a cutlist and go
to the shop (_much_ faster ).

The beauty to Sketchup is that you can install a plugin, CutList 4.X,
and simply high lite all of your components run the plug in and it will
enter all of that data fore you. This is a common practice for me
however I take the data that CutList 4.x creates and import again
directly in to "CutList Plus" for a more adjustable result.

If were doing a lot of work any more could/would agree--for just a small
amount of stuff do any more it just isn't worth the hassle to learn a
software package--or at least hasn't been so far. If were to do
something really complex, that would be different. Or, of course, if
the profit motive returns, that's again a whole different driver.
But, I've been there, and that's not going to be why I'm doing wwork at
the moment nor foresee ever doing so again at this point. (I think I've
mentioned before that if were in some area that could support it w/ the
population and income/disposable income base, my ideal retirement hobby
would be an architectural moulding custom shop. There's a family-owned
shop in Wichita that's really kewl type of operation that would be a lot
of fun but out here there's just not enough folks/money to get anything
off the ground.)

--

On 4/23/2013 5:01 PM, dpb wrote:
On 4/23/2013 2:19 PM, Leon wrote:
On 4/23/2013 1:24 PM, dpb wrote:
On 4/22/2013 11:36 PM, Leon wrote:
...


Actually evert part of the project should be made into a component.

I've actually played w/ Sketchup very little owing to the one time I
tried it was so frustrating I just gave it up...

I've since seen this in several earlier threads and have realized that
was at least part of the problem...so, w/ that background as utter
novice I'll ask...

So one should then just make either a generic rectangle (or one also w/
thickness for 3D) and call it a "board" and then just take instances of
it and assign a length/width/thickness then join these together to build
something? Does that work?


You can do that however a generic rectangle/3D board is much easier to
draw than to hunt up and import from your group of saved components. Add
to that it would be easier to draw than to import and edit.

That said if your component is complex it would make a lot of sense to
save the component and import to use and or to edit.




Or, slightly more complex, say it's a cabinet door...you have a rail and
a style general object that you just set length/width on as well as
adjust the tenon size/thickness (say) and then they can fit together
just as if had one of each in hand?

Yes, if you are describing what I mentioned above. If you do not have to
redraw a complex object that saves time and effort. Importing and
editing a saved complex component is much faster that redrawing.

Hmmm....seems that if it were as handy as could be it wouldn't be such
effort to just reset dimensions on a given piece....if it's as simple as
_just_ a board I can see roughly the same as it is same dimensions but
wouldn't seem should be harder.


Well, on just a board you can do it which ever way you preferrrrrrr.....
But unless you are dealing with the pro versions where you have dynamic
components, changing dimensions involves pushing and or pulling 3 sides
after calling up the saved component and getting it into editing stage.

Sounds like you have not tried both methods, give both ways a try to see
which you prefer.

On 4/22/2013 4:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:
I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to actually
learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've been spending
some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. Let me
give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. Each of
those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1" wider which
means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons longer I can't scale
the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the legs, then scale the aprons
and move the legs back. Not too bad on this but on more complex things it
could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Here are a couple of links to the FineWoodworking Sketchup blogs on this
topic:

http://www.finewoodworking.com/item/...ifying-a-model

http://www.finewoodworking.com/item/...sizing-a-model


The blogs have quite a few useful tips. The blogs are arranged from the most
recent to older. It is probably best to start with the oldest and work forward.

http://www.finewoodworking.com/blog/...k-build/page/1


Dan

On 4/23/2013 6:59 PM, Leon wrote:
....

Sounds like you have not tried both methods, give both ways a try to see
which you prefer.

I strongly suspect I most probably will get around to neither...

--

On 4/22/2013 11:20 PM, Greg Guarino wrote:
On Apr 22, 7:40 pm, Leon lcb11211@swbelldotnet wrote:
On 4/22/2013 6:24 PM, dadiOH wrote:







I've had the program for a number of years, never took the time to actually
learn to use it. Due primarily to various posts here, I've been spending
some time with it.

They say it is "intuitive"; IMO, some of it is and some of it isn't. Let me
give an example...

Suppose I draw a simple table: four legs, four aprons and a top. Each of
those items is an "entity". I decide that I want my table 1" wider which
means I need to make the top wider and both end aprons longer I can't scale
the aprons, deforms the legs. I could move the legs, then scale the aprons
and move the legs back. Not too bad on this but on more complex things it
could be a PITA.

Is there some simple, fast way to do it.

Yes

OK first off be certain you are using the latest version, you stating
that you have had the program a number of years indicates you may be
using one of the older versions which IMHO we more difficult to master.

By entity I suppose you mean that you made each separate item in to an
actual component.

Don't scale, simply use the push pull tool to lengthen or shorten the
end that you want to be longer or shorter, do the same for the apron and
top. Start the push pull tool in the direction that you want it to go,
don't worry about how far you drag it, just go in the direction you want
to go, than type in the distance you want to add or subtract.

I'd like you to flesh that out a bit. I tried it and found that
sketchup would not allow me to push-pull faces of a component. To be
sure, I drew a rectangle and "pulled" it into a box. At that point I
was able to push or pull any surface. I then made the box a component,
after which I could not use the push-pull tool on it.

You need to double or tripple click on the component to open the
compenent up for editing faces in the component.
then
move you legs.

NOW if your legs are reshaping when you are trying to adjust other
pieces that would indicate that your entities are not components.

I found that out the hard way a week or two ago. Yes, anything you
don't want to be deformed needs to be a component.

Once you make a group of lines into a component they will no longer
change unless you edit the component. To edit, select the component by
clicking on it and then double click the selection or right click and
select edit component. An outline of the defined area of the component
will form around the component and you can then make changes, like using
the push pull tool to change the thickness, width, or length of a component.

Aha. I'll try that. Perhaps then I'll find the way to add or subtract
a certain amount.

NOTE. sometimes components are difficult to edit where they are placed
in a drawing. Simply select that component and copy it to an area that
would make it more accessible, make your modifications and they will
also show up on the original component. Complete the modification and
delete the copy.

Hmmm. I'll try that too.



--
Jeff

Leon wrote:



OK, that is pretty easy, you have to think a little differently.
Instead of pushing or pulling, start by editing the component, then
left click and pull a selection box starting at the "TOP LEFT AND DRAG
TO THE BOTTOM RIGHT". You know, so that only complete lines with in
the selection box are selected, drag the selection box to capture
the odd shaped end and then "Move" that selection of lines, curves,
etc the distance you want to move it/them.

Be sure to use a straight line, a line on the componey, as your point
of reference for showing direction of moving or your result might be
more than just lengthening.

Argh! My head is beginning to hurt! Lots of good information, and for the
most part, well presented. But... the more I learn, the more I realize I
need to learn. Leon - this is starting to hurt...

--

-Mike-

"Mike Marlow" wrote:
Leon wrote:



OK, that is pretty easy, you have to think a little differently.
Instead of pushing or pulling, start by editing the component, then
left click and pull a selection box starting at the "TOP LEFT AND DRAG
TO THE BOTTOM RIGHT". You know, so that only complete lines with in
the selection box are selected, drag the selection box to capture
the odd shaped end and then "Move" that selection of lines, curves,
etc the distance you want to move it/them.

Be sure to use a straight line, a line on the componey, as your point
of reference for showing direction of moving or your result might be
more than just lengthening.

Argh! My head is beginning to hurt! Lots of good information, and for the
most part, well presented. But... the more I learn, the more I realize I
need to learn. Leon - this is starting to hurt...


It gets better, the more you use it the easier it is to remember.

On Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:21:34 -0500, Leon lcb11211@swbelldotnet
Sketchup should be renamed, Sketching with Components. ;~)
Think of they way you build things in the shop, draw the same way.

Does that mean, build something in an exploded view and then assemble
it to have a finished project on paper?

I have to admit, I haven't started using Sketchup yet. Not because I'm
afraid of it, (maybe a litte) just that I'm comfortable with the
program I currently use.

I know I could learn Sketchup, just that I realize it would take some
time and I'm not yet willing to allocated the time I fear it would
take.

Unfortunately, I'm big on procrastination. Same story as everything
else in my life.

wrote:
On Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:21:34 -0500, Leon lcb11211@swbelldotnet
Sketchup should be renamed, Sketching with Components. ;~)
Think of they way you build things in the shop, draw the same way.

Does that mean, build something in an exploded view and then assemble
it to have a finished project on paper?

As I undertand it, if you use components to draw something that something
can then be exploded.

I have to admit, I haven't started using Sketchup yet. Not because I'm
afraid of it, (maybe a litte) just that I'm comfortable with the
program I currently use.

I know I could learn Sketchup, just that I realize it would take some
time and I'm not yet willing to allocated the time I fear it would
take.

It's not *that* much of a learning curve. If you watch the first four
introductory videos - less than an hour total IIRC - I'd think you'd be
pretty much good to go since you are already familiar with CAD.


--

dadiOH
____________________________

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Taxes out of hand? Maybe just ready for a change?
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On 4/23/2013 8:45 PM, Edward A. Falk wrote:
In article ,
Greg Guarino wrote:
On 4/23/2013 12:36 AM, Leon wrote:
I found that out the hard way a week or two ago. Yes, anything you
don't want to be deformed needs to be a component.

Actually every part of the project should be made into a component.

Or a group. I get tired of thinking up names for my components, and
I don't like my "components" window to get cluttered up with things
I'm not actually going to use.

The advantage to using components is that if you will use more than one
instance of the component they are naturally linked. So if you decide
that a component needs to be modified and all "x" of the copies do too
that will not be a modification "x" times. For instance you are
designing 3 book cases with shelves set in dado's. You draw the first
case side, copy it and flip the copy so that it will be a mirror image
of the first. Then copy those sides two more times. Then later you
decide to put in those dado's, you put the dado's on one side and they
all show up on the other sides and on the correct side. If you want to
make any components different you make those components unique.

And I really don't like naming either however when I am actually going
to build this project the component names really come in handy when I
import them into CutList Plus. When I am looking at a 10 page cut list
I know which pieces I am looking at. And you don't have to name the
components as you probably know, simply let the default name be used.
In those instances I simply highlight the elements that I want to make
into a component, type G, and hit enter. Done deal.

With that said, a component is not saved outside the drawing unless you
want it to be. I very seldom, well never, permanently save a component
outside of a drawing. Unused components within a drawing can be purged
out of your drawing component list by using a "purge" plug in.




I imagine there must be a way to save components for future use. I
haven't looked that up yet.

Just right-click on the component; there will be a "save" menu item.

After a while, you'll build up a nice little library of things you
use over and over again.

On 4/24/2013 3:29 AM, wrote:
On Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:21:34 -0500, Leon lcb11211@swbelldotnet
Sketchup should be renamed, Sketching with Components. ;~)
Think of they way you build things in the shop, draw the same way.

Does that mean, build something in an exploded view and then assemble
it to have a finished project on paper?

You can do that however you need to really be good at visualizing what
the end product is going to be. The method I and probably most people
use is to start drawing a piece/component and when it is basically the
correct size convert it into a component "before" starting your next
part. Draw the next part in the location that it will fit. If you do not
make the first part into a component the parts for the next part will
"stick to it" This becomes a problem should you decide to move a group
of lines.





I have to admit, I haven't started using Sketchup yet. Not because I'm
afraid of it, (maybe a litte) just that I'm comfortable with the
program I currently use.

Valid point! I have been using CAD programs since 1986. I had
ultimately started using AutoCAD LT about 15 years ago and could not
imagine using anything less. Then I tried Sketchup about 8 years ago,
hated it and removed it from my computer. Tried again about a year
later with the same results. Tried it again about 4~5 years ago and
have been using it ever since. I cant tell you the last time I have
opened AutoCAD.



I know I could learn Sketchup, just that I realize it would take some
time and I'm not yet willing to allocated the time I fear it would
take.

Understood but I believe that the program is a real time saver when it
comes to designing and drawing compared to what I had been using. I did
keep AutoCAD available while learning Sketchup but the basics were so
simple compared to AutoCAD that I was drawn more towards Sketchup.


Unfortunately, I'm big on procrastination. Same story as everything
else in my life.

It is FREE, Just do it! ;~)

On 4/24/2013 6:11 AM, dadiOH wrote:
wrote:
On Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:21:34 -0500, Leon lcb11211@swbelldotnet
Sketchup should be renamed, Sketching with Components. ;~)
Think of they way you build things in the shop, draw the same way.

Does that mean, build something in an exploded view and then assemble
it to have a finished project on paper?

As I undertand it, if you use components to draw something that something
can then be exploded.

Yes, but in Sketchup speak exploded means to make a component or group
into many more desperate pieces. You can move components with out
changing other components in the drawing.





I have to admit, I haven't started using Sketchup yet. Not because I'm
afraid of it, (maybe a litte) just that I'm comfortable with the
program I currently use.

I know I could learn Sketchup, just that I realize it would take some
time and I'm not yet willing to allocated the time I fear it would
take.

It's not *that* much of a learning curve. If you watch the first four
introductory videos - less than an hour total IIRC - I'd think you'd be
pretty much good to go since you are already familiar with CAD.



Exactly, watch the many tutorials available but the first basic ones
will get you hooked. ;~)

Leon wrote:
It's not *that* much of a learning curve. If you watch the first
four introductory videos - less than an hour total IIRC - I'd think
you'd be pretty much good to go since you are already familiar with
CAD.

Exactly, watch the many tutorials available but the first basic ones
will get you hooked. ;~)

I'm hooked. And I'm thinking there should be a usenet Sketchup group (there
does not appear to be one).

I know there are many sites and videos devoted to specific and general "how
do I..." but they lack the give and take of a usenet group; additionally,
they are spread all over everywhere. So why don't you start one?

--

dadiOH
____________________________

Winters getting colder? Tired of the rat race?
Taxes out of hand? Maybe just ready for a change?
Check it out... http://www.floridaloghouse.net

dadiOH wrote:
Leon wrote:
It's not *that* much of a learning curve. If you watch the first
four introductory videos - less than an hour total IIRC - I'd think
you'd be pretty much good to go since you are already familiar with
CAD.
Exactly, watch the many tutorials available but the first basic ones
will get you hooked. ;~)
I'm hooked. And I'm thinking there should be a usenet Sketchup group (there
does not appear to be one).
SU being so "visual", what you suggest is almost a contradiction. See
sketchucation.com (Community tab, then select forums).
Their goals appear of a grander scale than ours--but that IS the forum
which you suggest should exist.

Bill


I know there are many sites and videos devoted to specific and general "how
do I..." but they lack the give and take of a usenet group; additionally,
they are spread all over everywhere. So why don't you start one?

"dadiOH" wrote

I know there are many sites and videos devoted to specific and general
"how do I..." but they lack the give and take of a usenet group;
additionally, they are spread all over everywhere. So why don't you start
one?

Cuz the powers that be make it almost impossible to create one. It is a
long, arduous, very political process. I went through it a few years back.
Never again. And nobody showed up when it finally got approved.

Leon wrote:

I know I could learn Sketchup, just that I realize it would take some
time and I'm not yet willing to allocated the time I fear it would
take.

Understood but I believe that the program is a real time saver when it
comes to designing and drawing compared to what I had been using. I
did keep AutoCAD available while learning Sketchup but the basics
were so simple compared to AutoCAD that I was drawn more towards
Sketchup.

I know nothing of other CAD programs but IMO anyone in the
construction/design/remodeling field is losing money if they don't use it.
I'm not involved in those occupations but the ability to have sets of models
that can be easily modified to fit specific circumstances seems invaluable.

For example, a cabinet maker could have assorted parts which can be
duplicated and/or sized as needed ...

1. a basic box

2. various interior parts - shelves, drawers, pullouts, whatever

3. frame and panel doors with various edge treatments

And with a few clicks any could have any type of surface/texture. Want to
see what the doors would look like with walnut frames and cherry panels?
Easy. Switch the counter tops to granite? Here's what it looks like.
Insert a wood chopping block? OK. (materials/textures are downloadable from
the net...a nice one of woods is at http://www.sawdustroad.com/sketchup

It's a moneymaker.

It is an amazing program "as is". Run through rendering software it is
nothing short of incredible! Go to Google, type in "sketchup renderings",
click images and be astounded.

--

dadiOH
____________________________

Winters getting colder? Tired of the rat race?
Taxes out of hand? Maybe just ready for a change?
Check it out... http://www.floridaloghouse.net