Question 1

Why won't my .skp file open?

Accepted Answer

The SketchUp format is closed, and the open-source reader this page uses was built by working it out. It reads most files from SketchUp 2013 to 2026, but not yet those saved by SketchUp 2019 or by SketchUp 8 and older, and a few others fail too. If you or the sender has SketchUp, re-saving the model as a different version (File, Save As) gets round it. Where the file holds one, the page still shows the preview picture SketchUp saved.

Question 2

How do I get a SketchUp model into Blender?

Accepted Answer

Save it here as GLB, then in Blender choose File, Import, glTF 2.0. GLB keeps the materials, textures and SketchUp's component structure, and the model comes in at its real size in metres.

Question 3

Can I 3D print a SketchUp model?

Accepted Answer

Save it as STL, which slicers such as Cura, PrusaSlicer and Bambu Studio read. The STL is written in millimetres, which is what slicers assume. A model drawn as surfaces rather than closed solids may need repairing in the slicer before it prints.

Question 4

Does hiding a tag change what is saved?

Accepted Answer

No. Tags only change what you see on the page; GLB, OBJ and STL always include the whole model.

Question 5

Is the model uploaded anywhere?

Accepted Answer

No. It is read and converted in your browser, so an unreleased design or a client's house plan stays on your computer.

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