SketchUp: how to start modelling simple 3D objects from Coursera

By the end of this project, you will learn how to use Sketch Up for web to model simple 3D objects

3D modeling is largely used in the design fields, to represent interiors, products, games.

In 3D computer graphics, 3D modeling is meant as the process of developing a mathematical representation of any surface of an object in three dimensions via modeling software. The product of this process is called a 3D model. This model can also be displayed as a two-dimensional image through a process called 3D rendering or used in computer simulations. Nowadays thanks to the use of 3D printers modelers are able to physically create the 3D model.

SketchUp for Web is a free version of SketchUp that runs in a web browser. It shows a simple interface where anyone can simply draw and create 3D models. This makes 3D modeling accessible and easy to use to anyone interested in exploring this field.

This guided project is for students, graphic designers, illustrators, or artists who want to explore SketchUp for Web as a free tool to try 3D modeling.

Anyone interested in exploring 3D modeling.

What's inside

Syllabus

Project Overview

By the end of this project, you will learn how to use Sketch Up for web to model simple 3D objects 3D modeling is largely used in the design fields, to represent interiors, products, games. In 3D computer graphics, 3D modeling is meant as the process of developing a mathematical representation of any surface of an object in three dimensions via modeling software. The product of this process is called a 3D model. This model can also be displayed as a two-dimensional image through a process called 3D rendering or used in computer simulations. Nowadays thanks to the use of 3D printers modelers are able to physically create the 3D model. SketchUp for Web is a free version of SketchUp that runs in a web browser. It shows a simple interface where anyone can simply draw and create 3D models. This makes 3D modeling accessible and easy to use to anyone interested in exploring this field. This guided project is for students, graphic designers, illustrators, or artists who want to explore SketchUp for Web as a free tool to try 3D modeling. Anyone interested in exploring 3D modeling.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Appropriate for students, graphic designers, illustrators, and artists

Introduces 3D modeling concepts for those interested in the field

Accessible format through SketchUp for Web

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in SketchUp: how to start modelling simple 3D objects with these activities:

Join an Online Community for 3D Modeling

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Engage with a community of 3D modeling enthusiasts to share knowledge, ask questions, and stay updated on the latest trends.

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Search for online forums, groups, or communities dedicated to SketchUp for Web or 3D modeling in general.
Join the community and introduce yourself.
Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your experiences.
Attend virtual events or webinars organized by the community.

Create Simple 3D Objects in SketchUp for Web

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Practice creating simple 3D objects in SketchUp for Web to improve your proficiency and develop a base for more complex models.

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Start with basic shapes like cubes, spheres, and cylinders.
Combine and modify these shapes to create more complex objects.
Experiment with different materials and textures.
Share your creations with others for feedback.

Curate a Collection of SketchUp for Web Resources

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Organize and compile valuable resources related to SketchUp for Web, such as tutorials, videos, blogs, and community forums, for easy access.

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Search and identify relevant resources from various sources.
Organize the resources into categories or themes.
Create a document or online platform to share the curated collection.
Share the collection with other students or the wider 3D modeling community.

Two other activities

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Design a Virtual Room in SketchUp for Web

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Apply your skills to create a virtual room using SketchUp for Web, allowing you to visualize and experiment with spatial design concepts.

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Plan the layout and dimensions of the room.
Add furniture, decorations, and other objects to the room.
Experiment with lighting and materials to create a realistic and immersive environment.
Share your virtual room with others for feedback.

Contribute to the SketchUp for Web Community

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Enhance your understanding by contributing to the SketchUp for Web community and collaborating with others to improve the platform.

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Identify potential areas for improvement or additions to SketchUp for Web.
Research and develop solutions or enhancements.
Submit your contributions to the SketchUp for Web community through open-source platforms.
Engage with other community members to provide feedback and support.

Career center

Learners who complete SketchUp: how to start modelling simple 3D objects will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

3D Modeler

3D Modelers specialize in creating 3D models for a variety of applications, including product design, architecture, and games. This course will help you get started with SketchUp and develop the skills needed to create high-quality 3D models. It will provide you with a strong foundation in 3D modeling and prepare you for a career as a 3D modeler.

See salaries and explore the career path for 3D Modeler

Product Designer

Product Designers utilize 3D modeling software like SketchUp to visualize and iterate on product designs. This course will help you get started with SketchUp and develop the skills needed to create 3D models of products. It will help you build a foundation in 3D modeling and prepare you for a career in product design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer

Interior designer

Interior Designers utilize 3D modeling to create realistic visualizations of interior spaces. This course will help you get started with SketchUp and develop the skills needed to create 3D models of interiors. It will help you build a foundation in 3D modeling and prepare you for a career in interior design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Interior designer

Architect

Architects use 3D modeling to create detailed plans and visualizations of buildings. This course will help you get started with SketchUp and develop the skills needed to create 3D models of buildings. It will help you build a foundation in 3D modeling and prepare you for a career in architecture.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architect

Game Designer

Game Designers use 3D modeling to create virtual worlds and characters. This course will help you get started with SketchUp and develop the skills needed to create 3D models of game assets. It will help you build a foundation in 3D modeling and prepare you for a career in game design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Designer

Graphic designer

Graphic Designers use 3D modeling to create realistic product mockups and other visual assets. This course will help you get started with SketchUp and develop the skills needed to create 3D models for graphic design. It will provide you with a foundation in 3D modeling and prepare you for a career in graphic design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic designer

Illustrator

Illustrators can use 3D modeling to create realistic illustrations for books, magazines, and other publications. This course will help you get started with SketchUp and develop the skills needed to create 3D models for illustration. It will provide you with a foundation in 3D modeling and prepare you for a career as an illustrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Illustrator

Motion Graphics Artist

Motion Graphics Artists use 3D modeling to create animated graphics for commercials, movies, and other visual media. This course will help you get started with SketchUp and develop the skills needed to create 3D models for motion graphics. It will provide you with a foundation in 3D modeling and prepare you for a career as a motion graphics artist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Motion Graphics Artist

Photographer

Photographers can use 3D modeling to create realistic backgrounds and props for their photographs. This course will help you get started with SketchUp and develop the skills needed to create 3D models for photography. It will provide you with a foundation in 3D modeling and prepare you for a career as a photographer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Photographer

Sculptor

Sculptors can use 3D modeling to create digital sculptures and models. This course will help you get started with SketchUp and develop the skills needed to create 3D models for sculpture. It will provide you with a foundation in 3D modeling and prepare you for a career as a sculptor.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sculptor

Industrial Designer

Industrial Designers use 3D modeling to create prototypes and models of products. This course will help you get started with SketchUp and develop the skills needed to create 3D models for industrial design. It will provide you with a foundation in 3D modeling and prepare you for a career as an industrial designer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Designer

Engineer

Engineers use 3D modeling to create models and simulations of structures and machines. This course may help you get started with SketchUp and develop the basic skills needed to create 3D models for engineering. However, you may need additional training and education to be successful in this field.

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Animator

Animators use 3D modeling to create 3D characters and models for animation. This course may help you get started with SketchUp and develop the basic skills needed to create 3D models for animation. However, you may need additional training and education to be successful in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Animator

CAD Drafter

CAD Drafters use 3D modeling to create technical drawings and models for engineering and construction projects. This course may help you get started with SketchUp and develop the basic skills needed to create 3D models for CAD drafting. However, you may need additional training and education to be successful in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for CAD Drafter

Technical Illustrator

Technical Illustrators use 3D modeling to create technical illustrations for manuals, instructions, and other documents. This course may help you get started with SketchUp and develop the basic skills needed to create 3D models for technical illustration. However, you may need additional training and education to be successful in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Illustrator