Welcome to ONLC Training Centers

SketchUp Training Classes & Courses

Learn SketchUp with live, instructor-led SketchUp courses from ONLC Training Centers! Sketchup is 3D modeling software that lets you render just about anything you can imagine.

SketchUp has drawing capabilities for multiple applications including architectural, interior design, landscape architecture, civil and mechanical engineering, film and video game design. This intuitive modeling program lets you create 3D models easily with its "Push and Pull" method. The program includes drawing layout functionality, surface rendering, and supports some third-party plugins. There's also an extensive database of user-created models available for download.

SketchUp also offers a range of creative tools to help users bring their visions to life. For example, SketchUp includes a range of texturing, lighting, and rendering tools to help create a realistic model. It also has an easy to use interface for creating scenes and animations to add to your model. Additionally, users can access the 3D Warehouse, where they can find a range of assets from SketchUp and other 3D content creators. This makes it easy to find assets for your project and quickly add them to your model.

Attend SketchUp training with ONLC to have the guidance of a professional online instructor who not only leads but supports students learning SketchUp throughout the class lessons. Hands-on exercises and labs ensure learning so you'll be ready to use SketchUp with ease.

Instructor-led SketchUp Courses (ILT)

Click for FAQs about our remote instructor-led training

ILT training courses are live and hands-on led and supported by an online professional instructor. You can ask questions and participate in class discussions simply by speaking up. This training is fully interactive . ILT classes can be attended from your own location using your own equipment OR from any of ONLC's hundreds of centers coast to coast for an interruption-free environment.  

Extra Value & Savings with Our Sketchup Training

Value-adds when you train with ONLC

You get more with ONLC! Train with confidence knowing ONLC has a money-back satisfaction guarantee plus the option see a class a 2nd time with our free refresher course . These ONLC value-adds are available when students attend our public, instructor-led training SketchUp classes. We also have volume discounts which provide savings for those needing multiple courses or to get multiple people trained. The more you purchase, the higher your learning discount. See Savings Options .

Sketchup Group Training: Online or Onsite

Group Training from ONLC
Get your team up to speed on Sketchup with group training from ONLC. There are several training options plus we can customize content to meet your specific needs, schedule and budget! Whether training is for a group of 10 or a division of 1,000, ONLC has the skills, experienced trainers and support staff to make your Sketchup training effective and successful. To discuss see Group Training and request a price quote.

 

SketchUp Classes & Training Schedule

SketchUp Level 1 - Essentials

Overview
This 3-day class provides an overview of all of the essential SketchUp skills needed for general modeling, layout, and architecture. SketchUp is one of the easiest 3D tools to use but it has many features. We teach this class in a 3-day format to provide time to review all of the major features and to give participants time to practice.

Who Should Attend
This is for individuals who need to get a complete overview of SketchUp's essential skills. This course is intended for participants with little or no 3-dimensional drawing or SketchUp experience, but who want to start to create 3-dimensional models using SketchUp.

Hardware Platform
All of our SketchUp courses are taught on the Windows platform. Because SketchUp on the Mac is very similar to the PC implementation, we welcome Mac users. Mac users have been able to take our SketchUp training without issues. Note: we recommend that individuals taking our class from their home or office connect to the "student" computer using a PC. A Mac can be used to connect to the "meeting" component of the class. To see the minor differences between SketchUp on the PC and Mac, please review this video prior to your training: Mac SketchUp vs. Windows SketchUp

Prerequisites
We strongly encourage attendees to spend time looking at SketchUp prior to class either by downloading the free trial or by seeing it used in a work setting. No formal 3D modeling background is required.

COURSE OUTLINE

The Basics
Opening SketchUp
SketchUp Screen
Toolbars
Viewing Tools
Shortcut Keys
Drawing Tools (Line, Rectangle, Square, Push/Pull, Circle, Polygon, Arc)

Manipulation Tools
Select
Eraser
Tape Measure
Protractor
Move and Copy
Rotate and Copy
Scale
Offset
Axes
Displaying and Smoothing Edges

Intersect Faces and Follow Me
Follow Me
Intersect Faces
Combining Follow Me and Intersect Faces

Making Multiple Copies
Basic Move and Copy
Internal Arrays
Non-Orthogonal Copies
Multiple Rotated Copies

Working with Roofs
Simple Roofs and Dormers

Groups and Components
Components Versus Groups
Groups (Sticking, Edge Breaks, Nested, Solids)
Components (3D Warehouse, Inserting, Scaling, Aligning)

Painting, Materials, and Textures
Applying Materials.
Editing Materials
Using Images as Textures
Material Collections
Material Translucency
Materials of Groups and Components

Adding Text and Dimensions
Text
Dimensions
3D Text

Using Exact Dimensions
Creating Exact Geometry
Entity Info
Exact Moving and Copying
Exact Rotated Copies
Symmetry
Measuring Length and Area
Scaling in 3D

Extensions Overview (Demo Only)
Extension Warehouse
Installing Other Extensions
Managing Extensions.
Other Popular Extensions

Dates Times Location Price
12/2/24 - 12/4/24 Live Online from our site or yours. $1,195

1/8/25 - 1/10/25 Live Online from our site or yours. $1,195

2/3/25 - 2/5/25 Live Online from our site or yours. $1,195

3/5/25 - 3/7/25 Live Online from our site or yours. $1,195

More Dates    Quote

SketchUp Level 2 - Beyond the Basics with SketchUp and Layout

Overview
This 2-day class provides an overview of all of the some more advanced skills in SketchUp such as Layout and Scrapbooks. An overview of time-saving plugins is covered. In addition, photorealistic rendering is reviewed using Podium.

Who Should Attend
This is for individuals who are functional in the basics of SketchUp and are ready to take their skills to the next level.

Hardware Platform
All of our SketchUp courses are taught on the Windows platform. However, because SketchUp on the Mac is very similar to the PC implementation, we welcome Mac users. Mac users have been able to take our SketchUp training without issues.

Note: we recommend that individuals taking our class from their home or office connect to the "student" computer using a PC. A Mac can be used to connect to the "meeting" component of the class. To see the minor differences between SketchUp on the PC and Mac, please review this video prior to your training: Mac SketchUp vs. Windows SketchUp

Prerequisites
We strongly encourage that individuals take <a hef="https://www.onlc.com/outline.asp?ccode=xskup1" target="blank">SketchUp Level 1 Essentials class</a> or have similar product experience before taking this class. If you have never used SketchUp, this class is not appropriate for you.


COURSE OUTLINE

Quick Review
Manipulation Tools
Groups and Components
Time-saving Tips

Layout Basics
Setting up your SketchUp File for Layout
Linking/sending file to layout
Setting up a title block
Auto-text setup
Template Setup
Default Style Setup
Drawing to Scale
Dimensioning
Exporting to PDF

More Layout Features
Using Scrapbooks
Creating your own Scrapbook
Updating your Model Changes on all Pages in Layout
Aligning Multiple items
Grouping
Clipping Masks

Plugins
Overview of Useful Plugins
Fredo tools
JHS powerbar
1001 bit tools
dibac
Housebuilder
Truebend
Curviloft
3D Tree maker

Rendering for Photorealistic Models
Overview of suggested platform options
Basic rendering concepts,
Intro to Podium
Presets
Common Settings: Diffuse, Transparency, Reflection, Refraction, Bump, Lighting Emitting Material
Rendering Libraries

Dates Times Location Price
12/10/24 - 12/11/24 Live Online from our site or yours. $795

1/13/25 - 1/14/25 Live Online from our site or yours. $795

2/10/25 - 2/11/25 Live Online from our site or yours. $795

3/10/25 - 3/11/25 Live Online from our site or yours. $795

More Dates    Quote

SketchUp Level 3 - Rendering Photorealistic Models for Architecture and Interior Design

Overview
This 2-day class lets you bring your basic Sketchup models to life with Enscape and Twin Motion. These are two of the leading programs for realistic lighting (rendering) in architecture and interior design. We teach this class in a 2-day format to provide time to allow for questions, review as well as additional hands-on practice. During class, the instructor will demontrate both Enscape and Twin Motion. Students will get hands-on practice with Twin Motion. ONLC Sketchup level 1 course OR an advanced understanding of Sketchup is recommended for this class.

Who Should Attend
This is for individuals who already have a functional background in SketchUp and who are ready to take photorealism to the next level in the SketchUp models.

Hardware Platform
All of our SketchUp courses are taught on the Windows platform. However, because SketchUp on the Mac is very similar to the PC implementation, we welcome Mac users. Mac users have been able to take our SketchUp training without issues.

Note: we recommend that individuals taking our class from their home or office connect to the "student" computer using a PC. A Mac can be used to connect to the "meeting" component of the class. To see the minor differences between SketchUp on the PC and Mac, please review this video prior to your training: Mac SketchUp vs. Windows SketchUp

Prerequisites
Individuals should have taken our SketchUp Level 1: Essentials course or have similar experience prior to taking this class.

COURSE OUTLINE

SketchUp Basics
Opening SketchUp
SketchUp Screen
Toolbars
Viewing Tools
Shortcut Keys
Drawing Tools (Line, Rectangle, Square, Push/Pull, Circle, Polygon, Arc)

Modeling Furniture, Cabinetry and Accessories
Faces and Edges
Stickiness
Move Tool
Groups
Modeling exercises

Drafting, Modeling, and Furnishing a Floor Plan
Importing and Tracing a Raster file
From Plan to Model
Draft a Plan from a Paper Sketch
Interior vs Exterior Models
Create Plan with Elevation Views

Painting with Colors, Textures and Photo-Matching
Paint with Native SketchUp Materials
Paint with Textures
Put New Colors and Textures into the Model

Apply a Real Life Design Scheme to the Model
Import a Texture
Import an Image
Photo-Match an Interior Space

Enhancing and Presenting the Model
Annotating the Model
Dimension a floor Plan
Scenes
The Walk-Through Tools
Dynamic Components
Save vs. Export

Plugins and Layout
What is a Plug-in?
Layout

Dates Times Location Price
12/12/24 - 12/13/24 Live Online from our site or yours. $795

1/15/25 - 1/16/25 Live Online from our site or yours. $795

2/12/25 - 2/13/25 Live Online from our site or yours. $795

3/12/25 - 3/13/25 Live Online from our site or yours. $795

More Dates    Quote

 Related Courses
  See other 2D / 3D modeling software classes at ONLC

Why You Should Learn SketchUp with ONLC...

  • Savings

    More SketchUp Training, Less Money.

    Get maximum buying power and flexibility with ONLC Learning Credits.
    Save up to 35% on end-user and technical courses in the learning format you want.
    (See ONLC Learning Credits link)
  • Extensive Library

    More Topics, One Provider!

    With our extensive class library you can do all of your training with us. One stop shopping!
    Our curriculum has intro through advanced level, specialty titles, boot camps, preps and more.
    (See Courses Topics link)
  • Free Retake

    More SketchUp Learning—Free Refresher Course!

    Had an off day so you didn't catch everything the first time?
    You may repeat the same live, instructor-led class one time without charge within a year.
    (See Retake details link)
  • Risk Free

    More Confidence.

    With our Money Back Guarantee link you can get a refund if not satisfied with our live, instructor-led training.
    ONLC is committed to quality training.
    (See details & restrictions link)
  • Schedule

    More Class Dates.

    Our public schedule of hands-on, instructor-led classes makes it easy to attend a fully interactive online class.
    (See All Course Topics link)
  • Our Place or Yours

    More Training Locations.

    We have hundreds of centers coast to coast with fully-equipped, interruption-free, training rooms,
    especially beneficial if you can't participate from your own place due to cybersecurity restrictions.
    (Find ONLC centers near you link)

    Prefer to learn from your own place? We have that too!
    (See home/office details link)

Frequently Asked Questions About Learning SketchUp

Can you learn SketchUp on your own?

Yes, you can learn SketchUp on your own. SketchUp is known for its user-friendly interface and intuitive tools, making it accessible even for beginners. There are plenty of free tutorials, videos, and online resources available to help you get started. However, taking a structured training course can significantly speed up the learning process, help you avoid common mistakes, and provide you with expert insights that self-learning might miss.

How long does it take to learn to use SketchUp?

The time it takes to learn SketchUp varies depending on your prior experience and how you plan to use the software. For basic modeling, most people can achieve a good level of proficiency within a few days to a week of consistent practice. For more advanced features, like creating detailed architectural designs or animations, it may take a few weeks to several months to master.

Is SketchUp easier to learn than AutoCAD?

SketchUp is generally considered easier to learn than AutoCAD. SketchUp's focus on 3D modeling and its intuitive drag-and-drop interface make it more accessible for beginners, especially those without a technical background. AutoCAD, on the other hand, is more complex and has a steeper learning curve, particularly for 2D drafting and detailed architectural work.

Is SketchUp free to use, or do I need a paid version?

SketchUp offers both free and paid versions. The free version, called SketchUp Free, is web-based and provides basic modeling tools suitable for hobbyists and casual users. For more advanced features, such as exporting CAD files, creating detailed reports, and using extensions, you'll need a paid version like SketchUp Pro or SketchUp Studio.

What industries use SketchUp the most?

SketchUp is widely used across various industries, including architecture, interior design, construction, urban planning, and landscape architecture. It is also popular in the fields of film and stage design, game development, and product design due to its versatility in creating both simple and complex 3D models.

What are the main features of SketchUp?

SketchUp offers a range of features that make it a powerful tool for 3D modeling. Key features include easy-to-use drawing tools, a 3D warehouse for importing and sharing models, customizable templates, advanced rendering options, and support for extensions that add specialized tools and functionality. SketchUp Pro also includes LayOut for creating 2D presentations and detailed documentation.

Can I use SketchUp for professional architectural design?

Yes, SketchUp is widely used in professional architectural design. Its intuitive modeling capabilities, combined with powerful rendering and presentation tools, make it ideal for creating conceptual designs, detailed plans, and 3D visualizations. While it may not replace more technical CAD software for construction documents, SketchUp is an excellent choice for early-stage design and client presentations.

What is the difference between SketchUp and SketchUp Pro?

SketchUp is a versatile 3D modeling tool available in both free and paid versions. The free version, SketchUp Free, is web-based and provides essential tools for simple 3D modeling. SketchUp Pro, the paid version, includes additional features like advanced modeling tools, the ability to create 2D documentation with LayOut, import/export options for CAD files, and access to professional extensions. SketchUp Pro is designed for professionals who need more control and functionality in their projects.

SketchUp News & Offers

Call an ONLC Education Advisor for certification and course selection assistance

Education Advisors for Personal Guidance
Our Education Advisors can answer questions you may have about our classes and training options. Our Advisors can help you find training is right for your career goals. ONLC's Education Advisors are available weekdays at our toll free number or via CHAT (icon on this page).

 

Train at any ONLC center

Hundreds of ONLC Centers Coast to Coast for Sketchup Training
We offer every live, online instructor-led (ILT) class at each of our centers on every date. Our training rooms are outfitted with the equipment needed for training and provide an interruption-free space so you can concentrate fully on learning. Find an ONLC center near you click link.

 

Train at Home

Live Sketchup Classes from Home
Attend our live, instructor-led classes from the comfort and convenience of your own home. The setup is really easy and you don't have to have the class software on your device. Follow our easy setup video click link. After viewing, if you're still not sure about the setup contact an ONLC Advisor toll free for assistance.

 

Group training available from ONLC

Group Training Option
ONLC offers complete learning solutions so training coordinators can quickly and successfully upskill their teams while maintaining their budget. Training can be via our public class schedule or private sessions delivered virtually or onsite. We can also customize content to meet the client's specific needs and technologies. To discuss our group training options and to receive a price quote complete our quick Group Training Request form or call 1.800.288.8221 (weekdays).

Questions about our SketchUp courses?

To register for training by phone or for more information contact an ONLC Education Advisor weekdays via chat or phone:

1.800.288.8221

SketchUp® trademark notices.

Locations

Looking for SketchUp training near me? Check our our list of locations below where you can go to attend a SketchUp class.

ONLC TRAINING CENTERS
800-288-8221
www.onlc.com