: Slant geometry parallel to a chosen reference plane.
FredoScale transitioned to a paid, licensed model in 2022, a move the community largely supports given the immense value it provides. Understanding the licensing is key.
FredoScale displays active modifier keys (e.g., Command/Ctrl for symmetric scaling) at the bottom of the screen.
Scaling a cabinet natively stretches the thickness of the side panels. fredoscale plugin sketchup
| Feature | Native Scale Tool | FredoScale (Box Stretching / Taper) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Multiplies dimensions (Scaling Factor). | Moves or stretches specific control points. | | Impact on Details | Scales everything proportionally. (e.g., makes window frames thicker). | Maintains the thickness of details; only adds length to empty space. | | Skew/Taper | Cannot taper a box into a pyramid. | Can taper any face independently. | | Precision | Input by ratio. | Input by absolute values (using the TAB key). |
FredoScale is packed with several distinct transformation modes. While the current version (v3.6a as of April 2024) is the standard, each mode serves a specific purpose:
: For models composed of numerous groups and components, FredoScale simplifies the scaling process. You can scale individual elements with precision, which is particularly useful in detailed and large-scale projects. : Slant geometry parallel to a chosen reference plane
Bends groups or components along a customizable circular arc.
While it requires a modest investment ($15) after a 30-day trial, the time saved and the creative doors opened are invaluable. Whether you are manipulating a terrain, stretching a skyscraper, or twisting a candlestick holder, .
Restart the application to initialize the new toolbar icons. FredoScale displays active modifier keys (e
Select your object, right-click, and choose Make Group or Make Component .
Tools like Twist and Bend require intermediate edges to deform smoothly. If you try to bend a simple cube with no subdivisions, the tool will fail or create jagged edges. Use a plugin like Curviloft or manually add segments before bending.
It is part of the extensive , which often requires the LibFredo6 shared library to function. It is designed to handle groups, components, and raw geometry, making it incredibly versatile for both architectural and industrial design workflows. Key Features and Tools
is a transformative extension for SketchUp that expands the native Scale tool's capabilities by adding interactive geometric transformations. It allows you to orient a selection box around objects and apply complex deformations like stretching, twisting, and bending that are impossible with standard SketchUp tools. Core Capabilities