To crop a view or image in SketchUp Layout, you typically use the Clipping Mask feature.
Here's how you can crop a view (like a SketchUp model viewport) or an image using a clipping mask in SketchUp Layout:
Cropping in SketchUp Layout is accomplished by applying a clipping mask, which hides parts of an object (like a viewport or an image) that fall outside of another shape (the clipping rectangle or mask). This allows you to precisely define which portion of your view or image is visible.
Here are the steps:
- Draw a Shape: Use one of Layout's drawing tools (like the Rectangle, Circle, or Polygon tool) to draw a shape over the viewport or image you want to crop. This shape will serve as your clipping mask, defining the visible area.
- Position the Shape: Place and resize this shape precisely over the area of the view or image that you want to keep visible. The parts of the view/image inside this shape will be shown, while the parts outside will be hidden.
- Select Both Objects: You must select both the view or image and the shape you just drew. You can do this by holding down the Shift key while clicking on each object or by dragging a selection box around both.
- Create the Clipping Mask: With both the object to be cropped (the view/image) and the clipping shape selected, go to the menu bar. As the reference states: in the Edit menu, select Create Clipping Mask.
Voilà, a cropped image [or view].
This action will apply the shape as a mask to the selected object, making everything outside the shape invisible.
Understanding Clipping Masks in Layout
- Non-Destructive: Clipping masks are non-destructive. The original view or image data is still there; it's just hidden by the mask. You can edit or release the clipping mask later if needed.
- Applying to Viewports: While the reference specifically mentions cropping an "image," this exact method is the standard way to crop a SketchUp model viewport placed on a Layout page. The viewport acts like the "image" in this process.
- Using Different Shapes: You aren't limited to rectangles. You can use circles, polygons, or even custom shapes drawn with the path tools to create unique crop boundaries.
Step-by-Step Summary
To make it easy to follow, here's a quick table:
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Draw Mask Shape | Use drawing tools to create a shape (rectangle, circle, etc.). | This shape defines the area that will remain visible. |
| 2. Position Mask | Place the shape over the desired visible area of the view/image. | Ensure the shape covers exactly what you want to see. |
| 3. Select Both Objects | Select the shape AND the view/image you want to crop. | Use Shift-click or a selection box. |
| 4. Create Clipping Mask | Go to Edit menu > Create Clipping Mask. |
This applies the shape as a mask. |
Using the Create Clipping Mask command is the primary method for visually cropping elements like imported images or SketchUp model viewports within your Layout documents, allowing for clean and professional presentations.
