Best SketchUp Classes Near Me

What is SketchUp? 

SketchUp is a versatile 3D modeling tool that helps professionals like Interior Designers, Builders, and Architects create intricate models of landscapes, buildings, and objects. It differs from more traditional CAD software in that it relies on intuitive designs that consist of basic shapes like 2D lines, rectangles, and polygons, which makes it widely accessible for users at all ability levels. SketchUp users can work with pre-built models or create their own. They can also customize their designs using various extensions.

SketchUp was created by the tech company @Last Software in,000 as a tool for 3D modeling tasks in filmmaking, design, and architecture. Since this time, this software has continued to gain in popularity, largely due to its flexible modeling capabilities and user-friendly interface. Google acquired SketchUp in 2006 to help with Google Earth’s 3D mapping capabilities. This brought the notion of 3D modeling to millions of people around the globe. In 2012, SketchUp was purchased by Trimble Inc., a company involved with surveying, navigating, and mapping equipment. 

What Can You Do with SketchUp Training?

Many types of design rely on 3D modeling tools because they help users easily visualize their projects, identify prospective flaws, and address any necessary changes. This is why SketchUp has applications in a variety of industries such as landscape design, video game design, interior design, and engineering. This software is a great resource for helping users create lifelike representations of their designs. They can include details in these designs such as lighting, textures, and shadows, which make them look realistic. These models allow SketchUp users to envision what their designs will look like when they’re executed so they can determine if they’ll function as intended or if there are any flaws that must be addressed.

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Because most design projects are collaborative in nature, SketchUp designs can be shared with stakeholders like team members or clients. This provides everyone involved with a design project with access to the design and the chance to participate in finalizing it. This software also allows users to easily edit their designs and see quickly how these changes impact their models. Some SketchUp users may find it helpful to share various design iterations with their employers or clients.

In addition to its range of professional design-related uses, SketchUp training can also be useful for non-professionals who don’t have prior design or 3D modeling experience. This software is considered relatively easy to use, and even novices can create basic 3D models fairly easily. Its extensive library of 3D models can help expedite the design process since users don’t have to create their designs from scratch. Additionally, SketchUp has applications for 3D printing. Users can export the models they create to 3D printers. 

What Will I Learn in a SketchUp Class?

The specific coursework you’ll encounter when you enroll in a SketchUp class varies, depending on the provider, the program’s difficulty level, and its duration. That said, most beginner-friendly courses provide learners with instruction on several core design-related skills:

• Coursework typically begins by teaching students how to navigate the SketchUp interface, including its basic tools.
• Learners explore how to work with SketchUp to create basic 3D shapes such as rectangles and polygons. They also learn how to add volume to shapes and modify 3D objects. 
• SketchUp classes often teach students how to work with concepts like architectural dimensioning, isometric views, and perspective. 
• Students are taught how to create sections for their 3D models, which are virtual cuts made through their models that reveal an object’s internal structure. These provide a way to look inside models without physically altering any structures.
• Some SketchUp programs teach students how to use this software alongside other programs like Adobe Photoshop and AutoCAD. 
• Participants in SketchUp classes often explore how to render models for interior or exterior projects.
• In addition to technical training, learners have the chance to develop their eye for detail during their training, which is an essential skill when creating realistic 3D models of spaces.

What Kinds of Training Options Are Available to Learn SketchUp?

Four primary types of SketchUp training options are available: in-person, live online, self-directed, and on-demand. Each type of coursework has incentives and drawbacks that learners should consider.

For most students, in-person SketchUp training is the most effective, engaging, and interactive way to study this software. Students attend training at a computer lab that’s located in or near a major city. All learners have access to computers with SketchUp already installed and ready to use. In addition to learning from an expert instructor who’s there every step of the way to share their industry experience and real-world 3D modeling skills, students also receive support from other students in their cohort. This fosters a sense of community and camaraderie through training.

Live online training is a popular alternative to in-person study. This type of coursework is taught entirely online using a live teleconferencing platform like Zoom. Students have the chance to study SketchUp from an instructor who’s connected and leading lessons in real-time. Participants can ask questions at any time and even share their screen with the instructor (with permission) for more individualized guidance and clarification. Best of all, since all coursework is taught remotely, it can be completed from any location with an internet connection. Students never have to waste time or money commuting to class.

Self-directed study is another option for learning SketchUp. Students who select this type of coursework complete their training asynchronously through previously recorded lectures, tutorials, and lessons. In this type of study, it’s up to the learner to decide for themself how much time they want to spend on their studies. They also get to determine how much time to spend on individual SketchUp skills or tools before moving on to new material. In addition to structured training, self-directed programs also often include additional professional or educational incentives like 1-on-1 mentoring sessions, access to mentors and instructors during training, and final graded projects, which can be included in professional portfolios.

Another way some learners opt to study SketchUp is through on-demand classes. Educators like Skillshare, Coursera, and Udemy have on-demand classes that range from just a few hours to dozens of hours. This pre-recorded content includes videos, online tutorials, projects, and quizzes. Students have the flexibility to complete their SketchUp studies as their schedule permits, which may be on the weekends or weeknights for full-time professionals. It’s up to each learner how they want to pace out their training, when they wish to pause or rewind videos, and when they may need to reach out to others for assistance with difficult concepts.

Choosing the Right Training Method for You

Selecting which training format is best for you is a personal decision that will depend on several factors, including your schedule and your goals for learning SketchUp. For most learners, live training through in-person or online classes offers the greatest learning benefits. Those who attend live classes can ask questions at any point and receive immediate clarification on difficult material. The instructor provides individualized feedback throughout training. 

If you’re considering live study, it’s important to remember that you will have to be able to attend courses that meet at regularly scheduled intervals, sometimes multiple times per week. This can pose challenges for some learners, especially those who are employed full-time or who have personal commitments outside of work. In-person study also requires having a reliable form of transportation to attend meetings and living relatively close to a training center.

On-demand and self-directed SketchUp training is typically a better match for those whose work or personal schedules would make it hard to attend live classes. For these learners, having the flexibility to decide on their own when to complete training and how long to spend on each lesson is a major incentive. Those who are considering asynchronous classes should remember that content is pre-recorded, which means an instructor is not present to provide answers to questions. In self-directed programs, students often have access to mentors and instructors for part of training (or in supplemental 1-on-1 sessions). However, participants will need to be self-motivated to find answers independently to questions that arise when the instructor is not present for training.

How Hard is It to Learn SketchUp?

The process of learning SketchUp is moderately challenging for most individuals, though the specific hurdles vary depending on the individual’s existing knowledge base and their professional goals. Because SketchUp was created with an intuitive push/pull interface, most beginners will find that 3D modeling with this software is relatively easy with this tool when compared to Revit, AutoCAD, or other CAD software. Individuals who approach the learning process with prior knowledge of architectural design or 3D modeling software will find it much easier and quicker to become familiar with essential concepts like working planes, construction logic, and spatial relationships. 

Learning style, too, plays a significant role in how hard learning SketchUp will be for most individuals. Visual learners may find that it’s intuitive to use this software’s direct manipulation interface, whereas those who prefer structured learning may wish to gain training through tutorials and coursework. Another important factor that will affect the difficulty of SketchUp training is the learner’s desired outcome. For example, those who simply want to learn to create basic layouts for rooms or furniture models will find it much easier to acquire this knowledge base than those who want to be able to create complex landscape visualizations or detailed construction documents. Because this software is user-friendly and easy to work with, this simplicity can occasionally mask the depth of training necessary to create professional-level work such as photorealistic rendering or construction documentation.

What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning SketchUp?

Although each student will encounter their own challenges when learning SketchUp, most will find that basic concepts are fairly easy to grasp, whereas learning this software’s advanced capabilities poses the most challenges. These include precise dimensioning, complex geometric operations, competent management, and large model organization. It’s also hard for the average learner to move from rudimentary modeling tasks to more in-depth professional projects. This is especially the case for users who are new to 3D modeling. Those who are more familiar with 2D drafting software may experience difficulty with precise measurements and dimensions. Some learners experience challenges as they learn how to group and customize models for large projects. Additionally, learning to work with plugins and accurately document designs poses challenges for students.

How Long Does It Take to Learn SketchUp?

The amount of time it takes the average student to learn SketchUp is largely contingent on the type of training they select and their learning goals. Basic skills like how to work with this software’s core tools, create shapes, and navigate the 3D environment take most people several weeks to acquire with regular practice (15-20 hours a week). For those hoping to develop professional-level skills, 3-6 months of consistent practice is usually required. This includes several hours a week spent on training and project work. Most SketchUp students will find that they can more effectively learn SketchUp when they break it into regular sessions of focused training rather than fit it in over sporadic periods of intensive study. This format facilitates knowledge retention and ensures students will have a chance to practice the real-world applications of these skills. Training also may involve studying related topics such as construction methods, design principles, or industry-specific workflows.

Can I Learn SketchUp for Free Online?

Before investing hundreds (or even thousands) in learning SketchUp, you may wonder if there are any free resources available that can assist. The good news is that there are several free online training options that can provide you with basic SketchUp training or help you find answers to specific questions:

• SketchUp’s website offers a “Learn SketchUp” section that includes useful guides and tutorials for the free SketchUp version, SketchUp Free.
• YouTube videos are a great resource for studying SketchUp. Learners can find short video clips that teach how to use specific plugins or provide instruction on the difference between groups and components, and take just minutes to watch. Longer, more detailed content is also available on YouTube that provides an overview of how to use SketchUp and its basic features.
• Many accredited educators such as VDCI, provide free, well-researched content on using SketchUp. VDCI offers a range of free SketchUp resources, including articles on how to work with sections and cut views, use shadows and light in SketchUp Pro, and utilize this software’s collaborative features for team projects. More than 150 articles are available on this topic from VDCI.
• Online learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Alison, and Udemy offer free SketchUp courses for learners of all ability levels.

While free online resources provide a low-stakes way to acquire basic SketchUp knowledge, most learners will find that they benefit more from a structured learning approach such as that which is provided in live or self-directed training. This is especially true for professionals who intend to use their training at work or pursue an entirely new career path.

What Should I Learn Alongside SketchUp?

Depending on how you intend to use SketchUp, the following are just a few skills and tools you may consider learning alongside this software to provide you with a more well-rounded education:

• Those interested in learning more about documentation may also want to learn SketchUp Layout. This companion software is a great resource for transforming SketchUp models into professional-level presentations and drawings.
• Learners who want to develop their rendering skills may wish to learn V-Ray. This widely used rendering engine can seamlessly integrate with SketchUp and help users create high-quality visuals. They may also wish to work with Lumion, which is user-friendly rendering software with applications for exterior space visualizations.
• For those looking to explore building modeling, Revit is useful for BIM-related tasks, especially those involving structural or architectural design.
• Individuals who want to develop their skills in manufacturing and 3D printing can study Fusion 360, a CAD software used to create parts and prepare them for the 3D printing process.
• Learners interested in creating detailed, technically precise drawings can study AutoCAD alongside SketchUp.

Industries & Professions That Use SketchUp

SketchUp training has applications in a range of design-related industries and career paths, including video game design, engineering, interior design, and architecture. Read on to learn more about each of these professional paths, the basic job requirements for each role, and the accompanying salary ranges. 

In video game design, SketchUp is used to create lifelike graphics and scenes. Video Game Designers apply their SketchUp training to create 3D models of assets, props, and video game environments, as well as to quickly visualize design ideas. Video Game Designers with SketchUp training make approximately $122,000-$132,000 a year.

Another field in which SketchUp training is useful is in engineering. Many Mechanical and Civil Engineers work with SketchUp to create simulated design iterations. They use these iterations to spot and address flaws before the design process commences. Civil Engineers rely on SketchUp to create, visualize, and model infrastructure projects like bridges, roads, buildings, and dams. This software allows them to perform early clash detection, which can save significant time and money on projects. Mechanical Engineers use SketchUp to model and visualize machinery, mechanical components, and structures so they can create simulated designs. In the US, Civil Engineers earn $128,000-$138,000 annually, and Mechanical Engineers make $137,000-$147,000.

In architecture, SketchUp has applications for creating intricate yet accessible 3D design models. Architects can share their models with stakeholders like clients and teammates. These models help viewers visualize what the final design will look like and spot possible flaws before the construction process begins. US-based Architects make $149,000-$159,000 a year.

Another industry in which SketchUp training is useful is interior design. Professionals in this sector rely on this software to create interior design visualizations that can be shared with others. Its intuitive interface is easy for Designers at all levels to learn and use, which makes it a popular tool in interior design. SketchUp’s versatility and speed help Interior Designers quickly make 3D models, iterate on their designs, and make presentations based on them. SketchUp also has a free version, which makes it popular among solo Designers or those who work in small studios. Its vast library, 3D Warehouse, has many 3D models available that help users add fixtures and furniture to their models. The average pay rate in the US for an Interior Designer is $109,000-$119,000 a year.

SketchUp Classes Near Me

If you’re interested in searching for SketchUp training options, you can use Noble Desktop’s Classes Near Me tool to find nearby SketchUp classes.

VDCI is a fully accredited educational provider, offering several excellent self-directed learning options for those interested in mastering SketchUp. Beginner-friendly instruction is available in its SketchUp Pro Course Online. Participants spend several weeks learning about 3D modeling and rendering. This two-course program provides instruction on topics like how to work with components, typography, and collaborate using this software. Tuition includes supplemental 1-on-1 mentoring with a live industry expert, a graded final project, and three months of access to SketchUp software.

VDCI also has more advanced SketchUp training available in its Intermediate SketchUp Pro class. Participants in this course spend several weeks working with this software’s advanced tools for modeling, editing, and customizing colors and textures. Coursework covers topics like modeling floor plans, designing interior spaces, using Sandbox for 3D typography, and exploring animation capabilities with 3D Warehouse. In addition to a month of SketchUp software access, learners also complete a final graded project that’s reviewed by an industry expert.

FIELD COLONY offers Introduction 3D Modeling / SketchUp for those who live in New York City and want to learn SketchUp basics. This short class teaches participants how to create their own 3D models, add components like materials and textures to these designs, and interpret CAD drawings.

In Media Training’s SketchUp Intro, participants spend a full day learning essential SketchUp tools and features. Those enrolled explore topics like how to navigate the user interface, work with its drawing and editing tools, and create a model based on DWG files/pictures. By course completion, students will have the training needed to bring their drawings to life.

City Lit offers SketchUp Pro For Beginners, an introductory-level class that prepares students to use this software for outdoor designs, object models, and interior designs. Over the course of several days, participants receive training on how to observe models from various viewpoints, add finishes and textures, incorporate shadows, save their models as images, and format them to be print-ready.

SketchUp Corporate Training

Are you interested in providing SketchUp training for your employees? If so, VDCI can help. VDCI has corporate and onsite SketchUp courses available for learners at all levels. VDCI can provide training for some or all of your employees in-person at your workplace, live online, or at its headquarters. You can purchase your employees bulk vouchers to attend VDCI’s regular classes or work with VDCI to customize the training that’s provided to ensure everyone gets the most out of their studies.

If you want to find out more about the exciting corporate training options available for those at your workplace, don’t hesitate to contact VDCI today.