Plugin: Sketchup Shape Bender

Shape Bender is powerful, but not universal.

(CLF). It allows you to take a straight object and "wrap" it along a curved path. It is widely considered a staple tool for architectural modeling, often used for creating curved stairs, railings, or bending complex window frames. 🛠️ The 3-Step Setup

For more in-depth tutorials on using the Shape Bender, including creating curved bridges or complex lattices, check out dedicated SketchUp learning playlists.

Click the curve you want to bend the object around. Step 4: Finalize and Adjust

Before installing Shape Bender, you must install its dependency file, (formerly known as clf_lib or Chris Fullmer Tools), which provides the shared code required for the plugin to run. Step-by-Step Installation: Open SketchUp. Navigate to Extensions > Extension Warehouse . plugin sketchup shape bender

Click the Shape Bender icon on your toolbar. Your cursor will change into a pointer pointing to a straight line.

Mastering the SketchUp Shape Bender Plugin: A Complete Guide

Your cursor will change to a curve icon with a green letter . Click on the Target Curve you drew in Step 3. Step 5: Preview and Commit

Open SketchUp and navigate to .

The distance between your object and the base line is mirrored when the object is bent onto the target curve. For precise alignment, place the base line exactly on one of the object's edges. Where to Download

: Many users recommend ensuring you have the LibFredo6 shared library installed, as it is often a requirement for plugins developed by Chris Fullmer or Fredo6.

When SketchUp bends an object, it stretches the faces. If your original straight object does not have enough hidden geometry subdivisions (segments), the bent result will look blocky or jagged. Add extra vertical loops or segments across the length of your straight object before bending to ensure a smooth, organic curve. Component Nesting

It works specifically with groups or components, ensuring that your original model remains untouched and editable. Shape Bender is powerful, but not universal

Select the Line tool (L). Draw a single straight line parallel to the red axis directly under your group. Ensure this line is exactly the same length as the object you want to bend. Step 3: Draw the Target Path

right now that needs a complex curve, or are you just getting started with the plugin setup

While the plugin is highly efficient, getting clean topology requires a basic understanding of how SketchUp calculates curves.

Your mouse cursor will change to a line icon with a green letter . Click on the Straight Baseline you drew in Step 2. It is widely considered a staple tool for

You either selected multiple separate objects, or your geometry isn't grouped yet. Ensure everything you want to bend is combined inside one single group envelope. 2. The Green Preview is Exploded or Inverted