When Google introduced Sketchup to the world, I thought it was so cool how I was able to create anything I could dream up. Well, at least in the digital world. I never thought about actually having my Sketchup models fabricated.
Well, not only is it possible, it’s affordable! There are many companies out there that specialize in a variety of fabrication methods that allow you to bring your Sketchup model to life.
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Ponoko provides 3D printing and laser cutting services with a variety of materials. They include wood, plastic, ceramic, metal, leather, cardboard, felt, foam, acrylic, and many more. They even provide a Sketchup plugin to help you prepare your model to be uploaded to their system for fabrication. All you have to do is create a free account on their website, upload your model, select your material and your good to go. You only pay for production time during fabrication. There are no setup fees or monthly fees. You can even set up your own “store” on their website where you host your designs, and they will make and ship your product to people who buy it on their website. You make money on each sale. |
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i.materialise.com is another fabricator that focuses on 3D printing. They also have a custom plugin for Sketchup to help prepare your model for fabrication. |
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This online machine shop has CNC capabilities to create parts from your Sketchup model. Although you can’t export your Sketchup model directly, if you have Sketchup Pro you can save it in a compatible format. If not, they have their own CAD software you can use to create parts. They have a complex set of machines that have the capabilities to bend, punch, mill, cut, cast, and more. |
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Shapeways is another 3D printing surface. More work is involved to convert your sketchup file over to something compatible with their system, but they’re worth checking out. Featured is their “food safe” materials for making cups, mugs, and other foodware. |
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Interested in 3D printing at home? Well check out the FREE RepRap project. The goal of this project is to design a 3D printing machine that is capable of producing the parts to create a copy of itself. That way, if you manage to build one, you can “print” out another one for a friend. What an exciting concept! All the plans and instructions to build one are available for FREE on their website. The latest prototype can make more than 50% of the parts required to build another machine. Eventually, they want it to be able to print 100% of the parts, including the electronics. |
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Pololu only does laser cutting and engraving. They have some limitations in materials, but their prices seem fair. Sketchup Pro is required for the export into proper format, however. |
I have not tried any of the services listed above, but I can’t wait to try it out. Has anybody had any experience fabricating their model? I’d love to hear about it.
