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Winds of Change Blow Through Digital Jobsite
12 commentsQuestion: What do each of these carpentry disciplines have in common; millwork, windows, cabinets, doors and stairs? Answer: In the not-to-distant past, each of these tasks was performed on-site by highly skilled carpenters. New applications of digital capabilities assure more change is inevitable as shown here with CNC fabrication of complex roof framing assemblies.
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Wall Layout and Framing Basics for Simple Shed Project
4 commentsAccurate wall layout and construction are key to building this sturdy shed project. Get insight into basic wall framing layout and assembly procedures using a SketchUp shed model to understand how plates, studs, headers and cripples become the supporting structure for the roof, siding, door and window.
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Begin With the End in Mind: Shed Layout and Floor Framing
7 commentsLayout considerations begin before the first board is cut or fastener is driven. Beginning with the end in mind will assure optimal results for your shed project.
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A Step Ahead to Build a Shed
Being a step ahead in building a simple shed can help speed up the process. A SketchUp model can give you that step ahead by clarifying the planning, parts and procedure for a very basic yet functional backyard shed.
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Graduate from a 3D Modeling Apprenticeship
Finish building 100 stackable sawhorses to complete your Introduction to 3D modeling and graddduate with a degree that's worth exactly what you paid.
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A 3D Apprenticeship: Day Two
5 commentsFor an apprentice, building a set of sawhorses is a great way to learn use of basic tools to mark, measure and cut. It can teach a 3D modeller equally worthwhile skills. On "Day Two" of this three part series, learn how to make angled legs for simple sawhorses. (Sorry, I inserted the wrong video link when this post first went public. The correct "Day Two" video is linked now)
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Carpenter's Introduction to 3D Modelling
Are you intimidated by 3D modelling? Get past your initial hesitation and frustration by beginning with some basics. Begin your 3D apprenticeship by building a hundred horses.
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Deck Stair Layout 101
Deck stair layout is simple, right? Probably right, unless it's the first time you've tackled the task. With numerous "stair calculators" available, figuring rise and run dimensions is easy. Applying those dimensions is another matter. Watch this tutorial to see how to layout a basic set of deck stairs.
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Exploring Octagonal Roof Framing with SketchUp
3 commentsOctagonal roofs are always a focal point. Whether used as a unique architectural feature for a sun or breakfast room or an attractive gazebo, their unique shape draws attention. Explore this framing model to see components required to create this novel roof shape.
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Is Your Future Sketchy?
5 commentsA New Year's resolution to learn how to use SketchUp for tackling project plans and design might be just the motivation needed to make your future a little less sketchy.
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How to Paint Fiber-Cement Siding
Painter Jim Lacey shares some tips for caulking and painting fiber-cement siding. read more
The Digital Job Site
Get the inside scoop on how builders, remodelers, and architects use the free 3-D modeling software Google SketchUp to design projects and present them to clients.
You'll find practical advice on how to use this powerful drawing tool, and get some insight into how some experienced builders and designers have workied it into their set of everyday tools. If you are new to SketchUp, you might want to get warmed up with a few of Google's free tutorials.
