Learn how to add text within SketchUp, a crucial skill required of any architect or designer. This blog is written to provide SketchUp users, of all ability levels, the know-how to effortlessly integrate 2D and 3D text into designs. Comprising a step-by-step guide and key considerations, in a few moment’s time you will have all you need to know to add text on SketchUp.
Text incorporation will allow you to effectively communicate your ideas, negating confusion and adding an extra element of professionality to your designs. This blog proposes clear, straightforward instructions, avoiding confusing jargon, and equipping you with the skills to incorporate text into SketchUp.
Refer to the FAQ Section to find confirmation on common misconceptions or quandaries.
Upon arriving at the conclusion of this blog you will possess the skills to take your SketchUp designs to the next level!
How to Add Text on SketchUp: Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s get going. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to add text to SketchUp designs.
- Open Your Design.
Either create a new model in SketchUp or open a pre-existing model. To add text to a model, you must have it open.
- Select the Text Tool.
Select the Text Tool on the toolbar. The Text Tool appears as a 3D letter ‘A’.
- Position where you want the text to be located (on your model).
Once you have located and clicked on the Text Tool, select the area on your model where you would like your text to appear. Don’t worry about being too precise with the text location, as you will be able to reposition the text later.
- Simply Type Your Text.
As easy as it sounds, type the text you want to add. This will appear in the box positioned on the defined location of the model.
- Modify the Text.
Once you have typed your desired text, you can alter the settings, relating to font, size and style.
- Position the Text precisely.
Having set the general location for your text, you can now position the text on your model more precisely. The Move Tool, a separate tool from the toolbar will need to be selected to drag the text box to the correct location. The Move Tool icon in the toolbar appears as four red arrows pointing in opposite directions.
- Save Your Model.
As with any edit in SketchUp, remember to save your designs!
Key Considerations
There are two types of text (regarding 2D) to choose from in SketchUp, both satisfying different functions. Leader Text is a labelling tool, utilising arrows to point to parts of a model. Typically used to annotate or label your models, it provides extra information to avoid uncertainty. Screen Text is used more for titles or general information.
Models, as a whole, will be more visually appealing and professional if you standardise the text style, size and font. Perhaps consider using the preferred fonts of your company/brand or your client’s company/brand.
Again, regarding size, text and style, make sure that the text is not lost against the background. Consider how busy the background is and the contrast between colours. You can test different variations, making sure to check the contrast between text and background from different distances, and perhaps on different devices.
You are free to emboss text in SketchUp to provide a 3D feel. Using the 3D Text Tool you can add depth to text, extruding text to any level you wish.
FAQs
Can I change the font, size, and style of the text after I have added it to my model?
Can I change the position of the text after I have added it to my model?
How do I make sure text is legible in my designs?
what is the best way to add dimensions and measurements as text in SketchUp?
We hope that this guide on how to add Text on SketchUp has addressed some of your concerns and left you feeling more confident to add 2D and 3D text to your models. As we have discussed, the inclusion of text makes your designs more informative and functional, whilst contributing a more professional aesthetic to your designs.
Why Elmtec?
- We embrace a consultative strategy, offering guidance on the most suitable SketchUp solution for your business, regardless of whether you operate as an individual freelancer or a multinational enterprise.
- Always available to chat, if you need help choosing between subscriptions, or tips on best practices. Give us a call on 01844 263 750.
- Choose between 3 training centres for courses, catering to a variety of levels of expertise. Find a centre near you.
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