Steps to Print SketchUp Models with Dimensions
Printing your SketchUp models with accurate dimensions requires a few precise steps to ensure that everything appears correctly on the printed page. Below is a detailed guide to help you through the process.
1. Prepare Your Model for Printing
Start by ensuring that you have the correct view of your model displayed on the screen. This view should include all the details and dimensions you want to print. Adjust your camera perspective or zoom in and out as necessary to capture the parts of your model desired for the print.
2. Access Print Preview
Navigate to the File menu and select “Print Preview.” This will open a new window allowing you to see how your model will appear when printed. At this stage, it’s important to ensure that the current view is precisely what you want.
3. Setting the Print Range
Look for the “Tabbed Scene Print Range” section in the Print Preview window. Ensure that you have the “Current View” option selected, as this will print exactly what you see on your model view. If you have predefined scenes, you can choose one of them instead, but for more flexibility, stick with the Current View for now.
4. Adjusting the Number of Copies
If you need multiple prints, locate the “Number of Copies” field. Enter the desired number of copies you wish to print. This saves time if you plan to distribute your models to multiple parties, colleagues, or clients.
5. Scaling Your Print
To ensure that your printout displays scaled dimensions accurately, select the option to print to scale. For this, find the “Print Scale” option within the print settings. If you had previously set up a scene for printing, you could switch to the Print to Scale mode at this point. This will automatically adjust the output to reflect the specified scale while also preserving the visual integrity of your model.
6. Confirming Page Sizes and Units
Before finalizing your print, check the dimensions of the paper you will be printing on. Go to File > Document Setup > Paper to verify or adjust your paper size settings. You want to ensure your model fits within the selected paper size without cut-offs or distortions. Setting the correct units (inches or millimeters) is equally important, especially if your project requires specific dimensional accuracy.
7. Final Review Before Printing
Once settings for scaling and paper size are confirmed, conduct a final review of the model in the Print Preview window. Make sure all important dimensions and elements are visible and nothing is cropped out or misrepresented. If any adjustments are needed, you can return to your model or print settings for tweaks.
8. Printing the Model
When all adjustments are satisfactory, you are ready to print. Click the “Print” button, and your model will be sent to the printer. Ensure your printer is set up with the correct type of paper and is properly connected to your computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ensure my model prints at the correct scale?
To ensure your model prints at the correct scale, you must use the Print Scale option in the Print Preview settings. Make sure you adequately review the scale settings and match them with the required dimensions of your project before printing.
What should I do if my printed model does not match the dimensions on screen?
If the printed model does not match the dimensions displayed on-screen, double-check your scaling settings and ensure that your printer settings don’t have any default configurations that could affect the output, such as “fit to page” settings. Adjust the scale as necessary and print a test page if needed.
Can I print from SketchUp for free?
Yes, you can print from the free version of SketchUp. The process is mostly the same as in the paid version; simply access the print settings and configure your layout within the free software. Make sure to check for any limitations that might affect your ability to print to scale.
