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How do you align 3D objects in Sketchup?

Published in SketchUp Alignment 3 mins read

Aligning selected elements in SketchUp, particularly along edges of a drawing area or page, can be done using a specific menu option as described in some documentation.

Aligning Entities Along a Drawing Area Edge

Based on the provided information, one method to align two or more selected elements along an edge of the drawing area involves using the Arrange and Align options. This process helps position multiple items relative to the boundary of the layout space, using one of the selected items as a reference point.

Here are the steps to perform this type of alignment according to the reference:

  1. Select the two or more entities (which can include 3D objects, groups, components, etc.) that you wish to align.
  2. Access the Arrange menu.
  3. Within the Arrange menu, find and select the Align option.
  4. Choose the desired alignment side:
    • Left: Aligns all selected items to the left edge of the drawing area, based on the leftmost item in your selection.
    • Right: Aligns all selected items to the right edge of the drawing area, based on the rightmost item in your selection.
    • Top: Aligns all selected items to the top edge of the drawing area, based on the topmost item in your selection.
    • Bottom: Aligns all selected items to the bottom edge of the drawing area, based on the bottommost item in your selection.

This action aligns your selected elements along the chosen side of the "page" or "drawing area," using the farthest item in that direction among your selection as a guide for where the alignment line is set.

How it Works

This method is particularly useful when arranging elements within a defined boundary, like components on a sheet or objects within a specific section view area, ensuring they line up precisely along one of its sides. The tool automatically identifies the furthest selected entity relative to the chosen edge and uses its position as the target line for the alignment.

Alignment Option Description Reference Point
Left Aligns selected items to the left edge of the drawing area Farthest item to the left
Right Aligns selected items to the right edge of the drawing area Farthest item to the right
Top Aligns selected items to the top edge of the drawing area Farthest item towards the top
Bottom Aligns selected items to the bottom edge of the drawing area Farthest item towards the bottom

By following these steps, you can quickly and precisely align multiple selected elements relative to the edges of your drawing area or page in SketchUp.

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