Making a Great 3D Warehouse Model
When developing models for 3D Warehouse there are a few best practices to keep in mind. When modeling, model for visualization, design, and specification. A great 3D Warehouse model is one that performs just as well as a component in the context of a larger project.
When creating for 3D Warehouse, use tools and techniques to help work quickly in SketchUp. Include sub-components, scenes, sections, and tags. These techniques help with efficiency and can help when the model needs an update later.
Managing Model Creation
When creating models for 3D Warehouse, create two files to help manage your workflow.
First, create a Working file. The Working file is where you will create all of your components. This Working file will contain the scenes, section planes, tags, and construction geometry that can then be reused on each component you create. This is where you can fine tune your component or model and get things ready for upload.
Next, create a Component file. The Component file is where you can save each component or model. When you are ready to upload, the Component file provides an easy way to manage that process.
3D Warehouse Best Practices
The best models and components in 3D Warehouse often use the same techniques during model creation and the upload process. The following articles act as a checklist providing best practices when creating a model or component for the 3D Warehouse community:
- Using Real World Measurements
- Axes and Origin Points
- Orienting Faces
- Minimizing Geometry
- Minimizing Material Images
- Embedding Useful Metadata
- Structuring Components
- Purging Unused Entities
- Minimize Tag Usage
- Keeping Style Consistent
- Avoiding Stray Geometry
- Avoiding Section Planes
- Avoiding Guides
- Using Appropriate Text and Dimensions
- Geolocating
- Testing for Correct Behavior
Following these guidelines may not only save time, but also make your model more likely to be found and used by other members of the community.
