I've been using this plugin today and it really is fantastic
One problem I've noticed is that the textures (regardless of source image size) massively increase the file size. This means that the high poly chair I've been working on has increased from 4.75MB to 10.5MB, which means that I can't share the model via the 3D Warehouse.
Is this because the OBJ file is bundled with the SU file, or is something else going on? Is there any way to get the file size back down again?
Are you thinking of TIG's triangulate faces plugins?
http://forums.sketchucation.com/viewtopic.php?t=20347
http://forums.sketchucation.com/viewtopic.php?t=23638
I wasn't sure which section to post this in as I want to share my model, modelling technique and ask for advice on improving my model.
Anyway, here is my attempt at the 'Coconut Chair' designed by George Nelson for Herman Miller.
I've uploaded the model to the 3D Warehouse and it includes all the stages of the modelling process, including the proxies used to create the final organic elements with Artisan:
sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/details?mid=9206c8269407d0eb57c5612b7fe8fc93&prevstart=0
As far as my request for advice is concerned, firstly I would like to know if I'm on the right track when it comes to my use of proxies and whether there might be a better approach to modelling this chair. Any advice would be much appreciated.
Also, there were some features that I wanted to add, but I couldn't really figure out how to model them:
There are more Monoblock chairs on the planet than people and it's pretty much the reason that the Panton S chair is so expensive (Vitra are still paying off the cost of the R&D that was ripped off to produce the Monoblock).
Rant over 
This thread wouldn't be complete without the horror that is the 'Monoblock' chair.
@gaieus said:
I knew it did - I have just not been able to do it myself yet.
Same here - it crashes every time. Haven't tried the latest version though. 3D Coat works well though.
There's this model available from Turbo Squid:
www.turbosquid.com/3d-models/max-tree-frangipani/569224
It's a bit high poly, but SU should just about cope.
+1 For all of the above.
Unlike other programmes the simplicity of the UI means that there isn't much of a barrier between conception and execution.
Thanks for the explanation. I didn't think it would be that simple - I assumed it would involve creating grunge brushes and using a technique to over paint in perspective.
Wow 
Glad you found the model useful and thanks for the insight on your process.
Is there any chance you could share your Photoshop technique for adding dirt? I've been looking for online tutorials but I haven't had much success.
PS - Whoever let the house get into such disrepair needs a good talking to 
Sadly it does happen though:
@nomeradona - Go ahead. I look forward to seeing what you can do with the model.
@EscapeArtist - I think that a lot of people underestimate how important texturing is. I certainly learnt the hard way and I've only really scratched the surface when it comes to what's required for really stunning renders.
Simple but brilliant!
Thanks for taking the time to put this together.
You're more than welcome.
The plan is to use the Villa model as a platform for future tutorials - covering various aspects of modelling, scene setup, material creation and post production required to create a good render.
It will take a while though, as I'm learning a lot of these things as I go along. That said, if there's anything in particular someone would like me to cover, I'm open to suggestions.
As a thank you for all the help I get from this forum, I thought I'd share a model I recently created to accompany my tutorial on seamless textures and creating materials with Thea Render.
The model is based on "Villa PM" by the Sicilian studio Architrend Architecture.
You can download the model from the 3D Warehouse and I've also created a Thea Render scene that can be downloaded from the last page of my tutorial.
Talking to a few people working in other creative fields, you're certainly not alone. When it comes to the freelance graphic and web design that usually pays my bills, things have definitely gone quiet.
It isn't very encouraging to hear that it's the same story when it comes to rendering. I've only recently started to take rendering seriously and was hoping to concentrate on finding work doing archiviz etc. and cut down on the graphic and web jobs I take on (my heart just isn't in it anymore).
It doesn't help that like yourself, I really don't have a clue about how to start looking for clients. I've tried the direct approach and whilst I initially tend to get quite an enthusiastic response, when it comes to the nitty gritty I keep hearing the same response: "we just can't afford it at the moment".
Your boss might smell a rat when you start complaining about RSI in your ankle 
.
Solo,
Thanks for the helpful explanation and posting the proxy primitive. As I suspected it all comes down to practice, practice, practice.
Now I just need to find a poly-reducing plugin for my eyes .
Really informative posts Solo 
Are there any basic rules that apply when creating a proxy, or is it just a matter of trial and error and building up enough experience to figure out what works best?
Obviously there are some drawbacks to being super vigilant and not wanting your computer clogged up with unwanted cookies
