Rendering in SketchUp

Part
2

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56
Part 2: Textures
T
extured surfaces represent the most important aspect of the SketchUp model. They define 
how the model will appear when rendered (Fig. 6.1). A successful model also requires care-
ful preparation and organization, which you will learn about in Part 3. Mastering the use of 
textures in your models allows you to render quality photorealistic images. With the right tex-
tures, even a simple model can come to life (Fig. 6.2). 
Fig. 6.1: 
The top image shows the model in SketchUp with textures. The bottom
image is the rendered version (SU Podium).
textures Overview 
ChaPter
6

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57
Chapter 6: Textures Overview 
In this book, the texturing chapters appear before the modeling chapters to emphasize the 
importance of placing textures. However, textures need to be applied to surfaces. Throughout 
Part 2, assume that a base model of some form is being created (Fig. 6.3). Read the chapters 
in Part 2 carefully, learn the various tools, follow the provided links, and begin to build a Tex-
ture Library.
Fig. 6.2: 
The top image shows a simple SketchUp model. The model has limited detail. 
However, once rendered the applied textures help create a photo quality (bottom image).

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58
Part 2: Textures
Fig. 6.3: 
A textured model (top) and the rendered result (bottom)
textures in SketchUp
Textures utilize linked images to take on the appearance of real-world materials (Fig. 6.4). The 
textures are then applied to SketchUp surfaces. Linking textures in SketchUp is a seamless 
process handled by the Paint Bucket tool. For rendering, the linked images should look like a 
photograph, representing a specific type of substance or matter found in the real world. 

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