To find and make hidden objects selectable in SketchUp, the primary method described is using the Outliner window.
You cannot directly select an object while it remains hidden in SketchUp using standard selection tools. The typical workflow involves making the object visible first so you can then select and modify it. The Outliner provides a powerful way to locate and unhide specific hidden objects.
Using the Outliner to Access Hidden Objects
The Outliner is a crucial tool for managing the visibility and structure of your SketchUp model, especially when dealing with hidden geometry, groups, or components.
Here's how to use it to find and unhide hidden objects:
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Access the Outliner: Go to the 'Window' menu at the top of the SketchUp screen.
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Select Outliner: From the dropdown menu, choose 'Outliner'. This will open the Outliner window, usually docked on the side of your screen.
- The Outliner lists all the groups and components in your model in a hierarchical view.
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Identify Hidden Items: In the Outliner list, look for groups or components that are hidden. According to the reference, any hidden items will have their eye icon crossed out.
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Unhide the Object: To make the object visible and selectable, simply click on the crossed-out eye icon next to its name in the Outliner list.
- Clicking the crossed-out eye icon will change it back to an open eye icon, indicating the object is now visible in the model.
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Select the Object: Once the object is unhidden, you can then use SketchUp's standard selection tool (the arrow) to click on it in the modeling window.
Why Use the Outliner?
While SketchUp has commands like Edit > Unhide > Last or Edit > Unhide > All, the Outliner offers granular control.
- Selective Unhiding: You can choose to unhide only the specific object you need, keeping the rest of your model hidden for clarity.
- Organized View: It shows the structure of your model, helping you understand where the hidden object is located within nested groups or components.
- Easy Identification: The crossed-out eye icon makes hidden elements immediately apparent in the list.
By using the Outliner as described, you effectively bridge the gap between a hidden object and making it accessible for selection and modification within your SketchUp model.
