If you want to learn to create 3-D models using Google SketchUp, this Missing Manual is the ideal place to start. Filled with step-by-step tutorials, this entertaining, reader-friendly guide will have you creating detailed 3-D objects, including building plans, furniture, landscaping plans -- even characters for computer games -- in no time. Google SketchUp: The Missing Manual offers a hands-on tour of the program, with crystal-clear instructions for using every feature and lots of real-world examples to help you pick up the practical skills you need. Learn to use the basic tools, build and animate models, and place your objects in Google Earth. With this book, you will:

• Learn your way around the SketchUp workspace, and explore the differences between working in 2-D and 3-D

• Build simple 3-D shapes, save them as reusable components, and use SketchUp's Outliner to show or hide them as you work

• Tackle a complicated model building with lots of detail, and discover timesaving tools for using many components

• Animate the model by creating an interior walkthrough of your building

• Dress up your model with realistic material shading and shadows, and place it in Google Earth

It's easy to get started. Just download the program from Google.com, and follow the instructions in this book. You'll become a SketchUp master in a jiffy.

Amazon.com® Reader Reviews (Ranked by Helpfulness)

Average Amazon.com® Rating:  Based on 2 Ratings

Offers an outstanding guide to an alternative to expensive, complicated 3-D drawing programs - 2009-09-17
Reviewer Rating:
Chris Grover's GOOGLE SKETCHUP: THE MISSING MANUAL offers an outstanding guide to an alternative to expensive, complicated 3-D drawing programs. Use the free SketchUp tools to draw in either 2-D or 3-D, add colors, design models, and develop models from photos or drawings. Even animate them or blend them into Google's other services with this winner.

Google SketchUp - 2009-10-07
Reviewer Rating:
Very satisfied with quality of the book as well as its content.
Very, very good

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