Where to store textures?

fitZ

Hello. I've only recently started to collect textures, but I really don't know where to store them. Is there a specific file in Sketchup?

Thanks

fitZ

Aerilius

Sketchup materials are stored in .skm files in the Sketchup/materials folder. These are Sketchup specific files that do not contain much more than the texture image plus the dimensions, transparency and evt. the color modifications you did in Sketchup.

I personally prefer to store my textures as normal image files in a folder and import them only when needed. This way, they are also usable for other programs. I can add the dimension in the filename if I need. I chose .png, because it is lossless (in contrast to .jpg) but also compressed (in contrast to .bmp). It also allows transparency. But due to the relatively high filesize, I convert textures before uploading the model in 3d-warehouse.

fitZ

Wow, that was quick! Thanks so much. So, if I understand you correctly, you save the texture image just like a jpg, or .png? And how do you use them as a "material" then. I don't understand how you can make a material out of a texture? Like when I select "light wood floor" from the materials folder, I can apply it to a surface and it shows up as a complete floor(multiple images of the texture, right?) How would I do this with a saved image? I'm kinda new at the texture thing.

And how would you put it in the materials folder?

maybe I've got a "insight block" or something.

Thanks for the info so far though.
fitZ

Aerilius

If you found the materials window, it's not difficult anymore:
just click on this icon
When you click on the "edit" tab, you can edit existing textures and change the image files.

dedmin

Actually, .skm is just a zip archive you can open with any archivator. Inside you will find your picture in .jpg format.

Gaieus

First of all, you need to "import" your texture image (File > Import > and there choose the proper file type). Also there make sure you import it as a texture but beforehand, you will need a face you can apply it on. Best is if you make the face around the size the material should be in SU.

Now import the image and apply it on that face making sure you scale the texture correctly while applying it.

Once you've applied it, it will appear in the material editor as a SU material which then you can simply drag and drop into any of your existing material folders if you open the secondary window as Aerilius suggested and be able to use it in other SU sessions as well.

fitZ

Wow, just what I like. Precise answers. You guys are great. Thank you so much. Ok, I think I get it now. Sometimes, understanding computer/graphics and all the apps tools take a lot of time. Especially in this day and age when I have NONE. Thats what I like about this forum. Once again, you saved the day.

Thanks again
fitZ