Plugin Sketchup Shape Bender [new] Jun 2026

| Symptom | Likely Cause | Solution | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Geometry turns inside out | Straight Curve is drawn opposite direction of geometry's axis | Reverse the Straight Curve or the Geometry's orientation | | "No intersection" error | Geometry is not grouped | Ungrouped faces cannot be bent | | Bending is jagged | Target Curve is made of short, straight segments | Weld the curve into a polyline | | Stretching/Compression | Straight Curve length ≠ Target Curve length | Use FredoScale or redraw to match lengths exactly |

Installing Shape Bender is simple. There are two primary methods:

: Your object or your straight reference line is not perfectly parallel to the Red Axis. Re-align them using the drawing axes or the Move tool. Alternatively, check inside the group to ensure the component’s internal axes match the global red axis. Nothing happens when I press Enter

SketchUp will generate a wireframe grid preview showing how the object will bend. Before finalizing, you can modify the output using your keyboard arrow keys: plugin sketchup shape bender

| Extension | Key Strengths | Best For | Price | |-----------|---------------|----------|-------| | | Bends geometry like a flexible rod; very intuitive | Simple, one‑directional bends (e.g., pipes, tubing) | Free (sometimes premium) | | FredoBend | Real‑time preview; can update the bend when the original model changes; works on complex containers | Advanced organic forms and projects where the straight model may be edited later | Free (via SketchUcation) | | Flowify | Maps geometry onto any curved surface, not just a path | Wrapping a flat pattern onto a complex 3D surface (e.g., a logo onto a dome) | Paid | | Bezier Spline / Fredo Spline | Create smooth, editable curves for use as bending paths | Preparing the perfect curve before applying Shape Bender or FredoBend | Free / Paid options |

| Application | Description | |-------------|-------------| | | Bend a straight frame to match an arch | | Curved stair rails and handrails | Perfect for spiral stairs or sweeping staircases | | Wavy facade screens and louvers | Quickly generate complex organic building skins | | Curved bridges and ramps | Create a straight ramp, then bend it along a scenic path | | Furniture with organic shapes | Modern chairs, curved tables, and decorative elements | | Signage and curved lettering | Bend flat text or logos to wrap around cylindrical surfaces | | Custom pipes and tubing | Model pipework that follows a specific routing | | Woodworking projects | Visualize curved inlays, bent laminations, and curved slats |

To get perfect results on complex organic models, keep these advanced techniques in mind: Add Enough Segments (Geometry Density) | Symptom | Likely Cause | Solution |

Draw a straight line parallel to the red axis under or through your object (the Base Line).

If you get a twisted, flattened, or inverted result, check these four things:

Restart SketchUp to ensure the toolbar updates. You will see a new icon featuring a straight grid bending into a curve. Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Use Shape Bender Alternatively, check inside the group to ensure the

To help you get the exact results you need for your current project, tell me a bit more about you are trying to curve and what version of SketchUp you are using. I can give you tailored advice on the best geometry layout or troubleshoot any installation hurdles you might be facing! Share public link

Shape Bender is excellent, but it is not the only bending extension for SketchUp. Depending on your specific needs, one of these alternatives might be a better fit.