Using Sketchup to make custom objects

[shingabiss]

I found the solid tools very limiting in CI so, being a Sketchup user, I tried exporting a porch I had created using the 3DS format and imported it.  Worked well.  I tried the OBJ format previously and had issues.

 

 

[BrownTiger]

Normally porch is not a "solid object". It is exterior room with a roof above the foundation walls under, maybe some railings and columns.

If you do not like the default newel post [columns] and railing you can turn them off, and place whatever columns you desire where ever you desire.

 

Porch may be enhanced with some solid object tools, like when you need to arch. The way CA builds porch is little unusual  but it is easy to use, 

and functional. If you build porch in CA it adjusts to a terrain, and shows in material list. Post plan / or image of your porch that you for some reason can not define in CA.

 

Or just watch some videos.

[johnny]

As Brown said it may be a better strategy to create the shell of the porch at least in CA and then supplement with imported objects you want to use (made in Sketchup or Chief). There are some advantages to building the shell in CA when it later comes to making CDs you can't get easily from a symbol.

[lbuttery]

It used to be standard procedure to use Sketchup as a companion to Chief for making symbols etc

 

Around version X2, Chief was improved enough that most symbols can be made using Chief

 

I have to hire symbols to be made - so just parroting chatter on the forum

 

Lew