Layer assignment of entities within components

[mitcorb]

Hi:
I don't think this has been discussed before, or if it has, please direct me.
When you create a component or group and assign it to a layer, I have noticed only recently that the edges and faces still retain their Layer 0 designation when you open the component for editing. Is there ever a need to assign the raw geometry within the component to that component's layer? What advantages would there be, if any?

[Rich O Brien]

Zero advantage...

Having geometry assigned to different layers is not advised if you want to keep your sanity intact.

[TECHDAVE02]

Generally no layer 0 is 1 different than other layers; once you make the geometry a group or component on a new layer if you turn off the layer 0 off the component is still visible this is the only one that works this way. So if you get that geometry on a different layer it will not work this way. It can be madding if you don't trust me I know.

[mitcorb]

Hear you loud and clear.... What sanity?

[Dave R]

Tim, if you look at the SketchUp Help stuff about Layers you'll see that they repeat several times that edges and faces should always be left on Layer 0. It's only components or groups and text entities that get other layer associations. They also advise leaving Layer 0 active at all times so that you don't inadvertently put edges/faces on other layers. As Rich says, failure to heed this advice will quickly send you round the bend. You'll be a candidate for a white jacket with wrap-around sleeves and a quilted room.

It's worth remembering that if you explode a component or group, it's contents get the component's/group's layer association. Keep that in mind and make the needed correction right away so it doesn't cause you headaches later.

Oops! Crossing posts, Tim.

[mitcorb]

Thanks Rich, Techdave, and DaveR.
After posting and thinking about it some more, I thought oh well let this stand as an admonishment to others in the interest of good methods.
I will read the Sketchup Help stuff on Layers again.
Still, white jacket, room with soft surfaces, delirious happiness?