How to Import Plans Into Your SketchUp Model

SketchUp is a 3D modeling and drafting application from Trimble for use in architectural, civil and mechanical fields, among others. Users can quickly build up 3D models using its precise measurements and simple controls. You can use SketchUp to build on architectural plans and blueprints generated by other software using the "Import" feature. If you have existing plans in .DWG or .DXG format from another computer-aided design (CAD) application such as AutoCAD, you can import them into SketchUp to use as a guide.

Step 1: Prepare your plans for import in the native CAD application, such as AutoCAD. Because SketchUp discards any elements unrelated to 3D, delete any layers containing non-3D content such as text, dimensions or furniture and turn on walls, doors and windows.

Step 2: Simplify the plans so that just the walls and any necessary doors or windows are included. Check whether the software uses imperial or metric units in your design.

Step 3: Export your plans in a format usable by SketchUp. Compatible formats include 3DS, AutoCAD (.DWG or .DXF) and the native SketchUp format (.SKP).

Step 4: Click "File" and then "Import" from the SketchUp menu bar. Select the plans you wish to import and click the "Options" button to the right of the window.

Step 5: Check the boxes for "Merge Coplanar Faces" and "Orient Faces Consistently." Make sure the "Units" setting matches the units used in the selected file. For example, if the plans were originally designed in inches, select "Inches."

Step 6: Click "OK" and then "Open" to load the file in SketchUp. Use the measurement tool to measure parts of the plan to ensure the plans were imported correctly. If any dimensions are incorrect, type in the correct measurement and press "Enter" to resize the model.

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