Creating an array of copies in SketchUp is a fundamental technique for quickly duplicating objects in a linear path. The process is straightforward and relies on using the Move tool in a specific way.
To copy an array in SketchUp, you typically use the Move tool in conjunction with the Ctrl key (or Option on Mac) to make a copy, and then specify the number of additional copies you want.
Here's the process based on the reference:
-
Select the entity: Begin by selecting the object(s) you wish to copy. This could be a single component, a group, or multiple entities.
-
Start to move: Activate the Move tool (
Mkey). Click on a point on your selected entity to pick it up. -
Press CTRL and move a distance away: While holding the mouse button down (or after the first click), press the Ctrl key (or Option on Mac). You'll see a small plus sign (+) appear next to the cursor, indicating you are now in copy mode. Move the copied entity to the desired location for the first copy. Click again to place it.
-
Type in the number of total copies you want: Immediately after placing the first copy, without clicking anywhere else or selecting another tool, type the number of additional copies you want, followed by the forward slash character (
/).- Example: If you want a total of 5 doghouses (the original plus 4 copies), you would type
4/. - Press Enter. SketchUp will automatically place the specified number of copies, spaced equally between the original object and the first copy you placed.
- Example: If you want a total of 5 doghouses (the original plus 4 copies), you would type
-
Adjust if needed: If the array doesn't look right and you haven't performed any other action, you can immediately type in a different number followed by
/and press Enter to change the array configuration.
This method creates a linear array where the copies are equally spaced based on the distance between the original object and the first copy you manually placed.
Understanding the Input
The number you type followed by / represents the count of additional copies inserted between the original and the first copy.
| Input | Total Objects Created | Description |
|---|---|---|
1/ |
3 | Original + 1st Copy + 1 additional copy = 3 |
2/ |
4 | Original + 1st Copy + 2 additional copies = 4 |
4/ |
6 | Original + 1st Copy + 4 additional copies = 6 |
N/ |
N + 2 | Original + 1st Copy + N additional copies = N+2 |
This technique is incredibly efficient for tasks like creating fence posts, stairs, rows of objects, or anything that requires multiple equally spaced duplicates along a line.
