How do I merge two lines in SketchUp ?

Merging two lines in SketchUp means combining them into a single continuous line. Here are the scenarios and methods depending on how the lines are positioned:

1. Lines Are Aligned and Touching (Collinear Lines):

• Step-by-Step:
  1. Select both lines using the Select Tool (shortcut: Spacebar).
  2. Right-click and choose Merge Edges from the context menu.
     • If the option isn’t available, the lines may not be perfectly collinear or touching.
• Automatic Merge:
  • SketchUp automatically merges collinear lines when you draw a line that completes a face or when you use a tool that modifies the geometry, such as the Push/Pull Tool.

2. Lines Need to Be Connected First:

If the lines are close but not touching, you need to connect them:

• Step-by-Step:
  1. Use the Line Tool (L) to draw a segment between the endpoints of the two lines.
  2. Once connected, select all the connected lines.
  3. Right-click and choose Merge Edges.

3. Using Extensions for Complex Merges:

If you’re working with many lines that need merging:

• Use an extension like Weld or Eneroth Auto Weld:
  1. Install the plugin from the Extension Warehouse.
  2. Select the lines you want to merge.
  3. Use the plugin’s command (e.g., Weld Edges) to merge them into a single edge.

4. Lines with Gaps:

If there’s a gap between the lines:

• Use the Line Tool (L) or the Move Tool (M) to close the gap:
  1. Draw a line to fill the gap between the endpoints.
  2. Select the combined lines and use Merge Edges.

5. Notes on Geometry:

• SketchUp considers merged lines as one edge in its entity information.
• If the lines don’t merge, check:
  • Collinearity: Are the lines perfectly aligned?
  • Endpoints: Are the endpoints touching?
  • Groups/Components: If the lines are part of different groups or components, they won’t merge. Enter edit mode first.

By using these methods, you can efficiently merge two lines into one continuous edge in SketchUp.