In SketchUp, locking a tape measure or other tools to a specific axis ensures precision when measuring or creating guides. Here’s how you can lock the Tape Measure tool to a specific axis:
Steps to Lock the Tape Measure Tool:
- Activate the Tape Measure Tool: ()
- Select the Tape Measure tool from the toolbar or press the
T
shortcut key.
- Select the Tape Measure tool from the toolbar or press the
- Start a Measurement:
- Click on a point to begin your measurement.
- Lock to an Axis:
- As you move the mouse to position the tape measure along an axis, press and hold one of the Arrow keys on your keyboard:
- Up Arrow: Locks to the blue axis (vertical).
- Left Arrow: Locks to the green axis.
- Right Arrow: Locks to the red axis.
- As you move the mouse to position the tape measure along an axis, press and hold one of the Arrow keys on your keyboard:
- Confirm the Measurement:
- Release the mouse when the tape measure is aligned on the desired axis.
- Click again to set the endpoint of the guide or measurement.
- Adjust or Specify Distance (Optional):
- After locking the axis, type a precise measurement and press
Enter
to position the guide or complete the measurement.
- After locking the axis, type a precise measurement and press
Additional Tips:
- If the Tape Measure tool doesn’t seem to lock, ensure you’re close to aligning with the intended axis before pressing the arrow keys.
- You can also use Shift to lock an axis temporarily while moving the cursor.
This method works consistently for aligning guides or measuring distances along specific axes, enhancing precision in your SketchUp models.