Plugin Sketchup Shape Bender Jun 2026

To get the best results with Shape Bender and avoid common pitfalls, keep these best practices in mind:

: Unlike basic extrusion, Shape Bender adapts the entire volume of an object to a new shape, allowing for bends from 0∘0 raised to the composed with power 360∘360 raised to the composed with power

Shape Bender cannot follow a complex S-curve in one pass. Solution:

Create the curve or path you want the object to follow. This can be an arc, a circle, or a complex polyline. Ensure this curve is "welded" into a single path (use the native "Weld Edges" tool in newer SketchUp versions). 4. Run the Plugin you want to bend.

Before you commit to a permanent change, Shape Bender provides a real-time preview of the bent object. You can adjust the orientation and direction of the bend using the arrow keys on your keyboard before hitting "Enter" to confirm. This feature saves you from guesswork and potential mistakes. plugin sketchup shape bender

: A single straight line drawn along the Red Axis that represents the length of your object.

Click the on your toolbar (or go to Extensions > Chris Fullmer Tools > Shape Bender ).

Shape Bender is a Ruby script extension for SketchUp. It automates a process that would otherwise take hours of manual geometric calculation. The plugin requires three specific elements to work:

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to install, master, and troubleshoot the SketchUp Shape Bender plugin. What is the Shape Bender Plugin? To get the best results with Shape Bender

After installation, ensure the plugin is enabled in the Extension Manager.

Before installing Shape Bender, you must install the LibFredo6 or the standalone Progressbar script (depending on your SketchUp version source). Without this, Shape Bender will throw an error upon startup and fail to run. Step 2: Install Shape Bender Open SketchUp. Navigate to > Extension Warehouse . Search for Shape Bender (by author Chris Fullmer). Click Install .

Draw a straight line that runs the length of your object (or slightly longer). This line must be parallel to SketchUp’s global . It does not need to lie directly on the red axis, but it must be parallel. The line should be placed outside the group or component you intend to bend.

Draw your destination curve (an arc, circle, or freehand line) anywhere in your workspace. Phase 2: Executing the Tool Select the Grouped Object first. Ensure this curve is "welded" into a single

Have you tried the new Curve Bender in SketchUp 2024’s Development Tools? It’s slower but more stable. Until then, Chris Fullmer’s classic remains king.

Solution: Your object likely has too many polygons or your target curve has too many segments. Try reducing the segment count of your arc or simplifying the 3D details of your object before bending. Conclusion

: A single straight line drawn along the red axis, representing the original length and orientation of the object. The Target Curve : The curved edge that represents the desired final shape. Workflow and Operation : Select the group or component first. Activation : Activate the tool via the SketchUp Extension Warehouse toolbar or the Plugins menu. : Click the first, then the Target Curve Preview & Toggle : A wireframe preview will appear. Use the Up/Down arrow keys

A straight reference line that runs parallel to the length of your object.