Google SketchUp 8 Essential Training - Lynda

In this course, author George Maestri explains how to model and render 3D objects and scenes using Google SketchUp 8. The course covers the fundamentals of the application, from navigating the user interface, manipulating objects, and building basic shapes to importing objects from Google Earth, animating a scene, and modeling organic terrain using the Sandbox tools. The course also explores SketchUp Pro features, which are available as an upgrade. These include tools for creating dynamic components and adding interactivity, as well as sophisticated importing and exporting options for working with outside applications.
Topics include:
Setting preferences
Building scenes
Pushing and pulling faces into 3D
Creating 3D text
Measuring and labeling models
Creating, editing, and adjusting materials
Projecting maps onto curved objects
Modeling with floor plans
Rendering a scene
Geolocating models with Google Maps
Modeling in Photo Match
Hiding objects dynamically
Creating solids
Exporting objects for rendering