Sketchy architectural rendering of 3dmodel...

[Ross Macintosh]

In the recent 'stop & post' thread I posted my first experiment trying to get a SketchUp model to look more sketchy using Xara Xtreme. Since then I've developed the techniques more, trying to achieve a style I can quickly and consistantly reproduce with different models.

If anyone wants more info on the techniques just ask. By the way, I used a blue line underlay on it as it relates to the traditional perspectivist's technique of using a blue non-repro pencil to rough up the perspective. I was trying to have it look like that blue linework was then drawn over by hand with a rapidiograph-type ink pen and then with pencil cross hatching. In reality the image is an example of Xara manipulation of three SketchUp jpg exports + a little bit of Xara touchups.

Regards, Ross

PS - sorry for the relatively large size. This one needed it.

[RTK]

Not knowing any better, it does look like the real thing to me, Ross.

Have you tried printing out any of these files? I assume you will be doing so? The reason why I'm mentioning this is that many filters don't produce the same type of result (look) when applied to a high resolution file. But then again, you probably thought about this already...

Thanks for sharing!

[John Rayner]

Looks Good to me Ross..

[Ross Macintosh]

Risto -- I haven't printed yet but I'm not anticipating any problems. I will be outputting a series of jpgs then assembling them into a single layout and printing that poster sized. I have noticed when applying filters like 'jiggle' if you increase the resolution you must also increase the 'bubble' size.

In my above example the main effect was achieved with four objects (all jpg imports), one filter and Xara's transparency tool. I'm counting on it being very easy to reproduce since I have several more views of the model to be similarly processed. Time is money so its handy when a simple, yet reasonably effective, technique like this develops.

Regards, Ross

[Ross Macintosh]

Thanks John! I appreciate that.

[Albacore]

High Ross,
I Think this style give you drawing a real classy look and the ability to take your pdf output from Sk/it into Extreme and apply your finish is great.
Still the Sk/it is over priced for what is does.

[Ross Macintosh]

Hi Albacore - In this case it was just jpgs brought into Xara from SketchUp - no real lines just bitmaps. This approach is much quicker than working with imported vectors. Xara, and particularly the live effects bog down when you bring in thousands & thousands of lines.

SketchUp certainly isn't overpriced. If you have any need for 3d visualization it can pay for itself in productivity on the first project. If you're interested in seeing what people are doing with SketchUp visit the SketchUp Gallery.

Regards, Ross

[John Rayner]

No Problem Ross...

[OklaEd]

Very classy Ross ... I like how the cross hatching came out.

[gray]

That looks just excellent Ross.