SketchUp

SketchUp Make is a simple and easy-to-use 3D modeling tool which can be used on its own or as Google Earth plug-in. With it you can create 2D or 3D objects of any kind, and even change the used color schemes or materials of your models. Finished models can be printed, published, stored in the 3D Warehouse or even published directly to the Google Earth where user created models of real structures can be seen by millions of visitors who daily use this service both on all modern PCs and portable devices.

There are many great modeling tools currently on the market, but SketchUp was built from the ground up be first modeling program to novices, but leaving enough advance tools and services that those novices and advanced users alike have room to experiment, expand their knowledge and learn countless new things about the world of 3D modeling. This approach to simplicity and easy access to advanced tools is perfectly showcased in its interface, which offers wide variety of tools, documentation and tutorials that can provide each novice with easy acclimation. With the app, users can easily model and redecorate your living room, invent a new piece of furniture, model your city for Google Earth, use it as tool for your school or university projects, introduce it into your work pipeline and much more.

Freeware version of SketchUp Make can be used without limitations, but professionals will most likely be attracted to paid “Pro” version that places much higher focus on architecture and easier ability to transfer your drawings into 3D objects.

What makes SketchUp Make great?
Edges and Faces: That's all there is to it
Push/Pull: Quickly go from 2D to 3D
Accurate measurements: Work with precision
Follow Me: Create complex extrusions and lathed forms
Paint Bucket: Apply colors and textures
Groups and Components: Build smarter models
Shadows: Perform shade studies and add realism
Sections: See inside your models
Scenes: Save views and create animations
Look Around and Walk: Explore your creations firsthand
Dimensions and Labels: Add information to your designs
The Instructor: Catch on quickly
Layers and the Outliner: Stay organized
Google Earth: See your models in context
Sandbox tools: Work on terrain
3D Warehouse: Find models of almost anything you need
Import 3DS: Get a head start on your modeling
Import images: Paint walls with photos
Export TIFF, JPEG and PNG
Note: SketchUp Make is free for educational and personal use. SketchUp Make allows you to test the LayOut and Style Builder tools found in SketchUp Pro for 30 days. After this period, you can continue using SketchUp Make. If you want to benefit from all the functions of the application you can choose to purchase it.