Totally new to SketchUp and really need help!

[ash87]

Well i've used SketchUp a little on my last project but it was pretty basic lines etc. But now i need to produce a full model of a building and the interior im designing. I've got the outline of the floor plan drawn but im really stuck with how you create furniture, i know there is the 3D warehouse but most of the furniture will be bespoke and i need to make like a curvy reception desk and stuff. I really have no idea how to even create a sofa with cushions. I've ordered the SketchUp for dummies book lol but that wont arrive for about another week and i really need to get going with it now.
If anyone could offer any advice i'd appreciate it SO much!! Thanks.

Ashleigh

[ReMark]

Sofa...like this one?

http://sketchup.computingforarchitects.com/library/furniture/sofa-2333/

You might want to try a search of the Internet using the following as the criteria (include everything you see):

"sketchup"+"furniture"

or

"sketchup"+"office furniture"

[f700es]

For most stuff just use available models. Remember SU can import .3ds, .dwg, .dxf and with a plug-in you can even use .obj files.

[ash87]

Thanks for that link ReMark, it looks really good.

Yeah i think i'll just have to use some available models f700es. I have managed to just create a very, very basic chair which is futher than where i had got lol. But what im stuck with which would help for a lot of things is how to get a nice smooth/curved edge. Like on the edges of the sofa, rather than it being blocks.

Ashleigh.

[SLW210]

You could try making the models in AutoCAD and importing them.

[ash87]

I would try that in AutoCAD but I only know how to make basic 2D floor plans, elevations. I havent really been shown much on AutoCAD and i'm trying really hard now to learn new things on it but i'm finding it difficult becuase I have so many other things to fit in and I havent been well lately. I'll keep trying though.

Ashleigh.

[ReMark]

When you get well then come back and we'll help you through it. 2D, 3D whatever you'd like. Someone's always around to lend a hand.

[SLW210]

To give you a start..

Draw the over head outline of the desk top, make it a _REGION or Closed _PLINE and _EXTRUDE it to the thickness.

[ash87]

Thank you SO much for that! I've never tried anything like that before.


Ashleigh

[cadmastr]

I have a few small couches on my models download page you could try. Here's the link:

http://www.chrispicciano.com/3dmodels.htm

As far as learning goes, do you know about the video tutorials online at YouTube? There are some by Google and some by Aidan Chopra (author of the "Google SketchUp for Dummies" book.

Here are those links:

http://www.youtube.com/aidanchopra

http://www.youtube.com/user/SketchUpVideo

I have found them to be really helpful.

Good Luck!