What is SketchUp?
SketchUp is a fast, intuitive 3D modelling program popular for architectural concepts, interiors, landscaping and woodworking. Learn what it’s good at and which version to use.
In this lesson you will
- Describe what SketchUp is used for
- Understand the free and paid versions
- Compare SketchUp with BIM and CAD tools
- Know SketchUp's file types
Quick 3D, the direct way
SketchUp models are built from edges and faces: draw a shape on the ground, pull it up into 3D, draw on its faces, push and pull again. It's quick to learn and quick to use, which is why architects use it for concepts and massing, interior designers for room layouts, landscape designers for gardens and makers for furniture and joinery.
Versions
SketchUp is developed by Trimble. Versions change over time; at the time of writing they include:
- SketchUp Free — a web-based version for personal, non-commercial use.
- Paid subscriptions (such as SketchUp Go and SketchUp Pro) for professional use; Pro adds the desktop app, LayOut for drawings, extensions and more.
- Free or discounted educational licences for eligible students and teachers.
Check Trimble's website for current plans and licence terms — using the free version for commercial work breaches its terms.
SketchUp, CAD and BIM
SketchUp is not a BIM authoring tool like Revit: surfaces don't know they are walls unless you organise and tag them. It excels at speed and design exploration. Many firms design in SketchUp and document in Revit or AutoCAD, or document directly in SketchUp's LayOut for smaller projects. SketchUp can export IFC in Pro for coordination.
Files
- .skp — SketchUp model.
- .layout — LayOut document (sheets).
- Import/export: DWG/DXF, IFC (Pro), images, PDF from LayOut.
Models saved in newer versions may not open in older ones — agree versions with your team.
Exercise
Start modelling
- Open SketchUp from an official source (e.g. SketchUp Free in your browser for personal learning).
- Choose a template in millimetres or metres (Architectural or Woodworking).
- Draw a rectangle on the ground and pull it up with Push/Pull.
- Orbit around it and save it.
You should end up with: Your first SketchUp box, saved.
Checklist
0 of 4 checked · saved on this device
Lesson quiz
SketchUp Free may be used for commercial client work.
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Taking the quiz marks it complete too. Your course page picks up where you stopped.
Free KitWren tools that help
- Length ConverterConvert between metres, centimetres, millimetres, kilometres, inches, feet, yards and miles.
- Area ConverterConvert square metres, square feet, acres, hectares and more.
- Image ResizerResize images to exact pixel dimensions or by percentage, keeping the proportions if you like.
- Image CompressorCompress JPG, PNG and WebP images to make them much smaller — with a before/after preview and the size saved.
- Paint CalculatorWork out how much paint you need for a room’s walls and ceiling, in litres or gallons.
- Flooring CalculatorCalculate how much flooring, timber, laminate or carpet to buy, including waste and boxes.
Free, independent learning material written for KitWren. SketchUp and LayOut are trademarks of Trimble Inc. KitWren is not affiliated with, sponsored or endorsed by Trimble. We never provide software downloads, licence keys or cracks — use the official sources.