How do I import a SketchUp file into Blender?
SimLab SKP Importer for Blender opens SketchUp .skp files from SketchUp 2025 and older directly in Blender 2.8 through 5.1, on Windows and macOS. It brings in geometry, materials, textures, UV coordinates, groups and component hierarchies, with up vector, rotation and scale options. After installing the ZIP add-on, use File > Import > SketchUp (.skp). It costs $72/year (two machines, updates included); the free trial lasts 14 days or 30 uses.
- Supports: Blender 2.8 – 5.1
- SKP files: SketchUp 2025 and older
- OS: Windows and macOS
- Imports: geometry, materials, textures, UVs, groups, components
- Price: $72/year subscription, two machines
- Trial: 14 days or 30 uses, no credit card
Key Features of Our SketchUp to Blender Importer
Blender 5.1 Compatible
Works with Blender 5.1 and all older versions back to 2.8
All SKP Versions
Import files from SketchUp 2025 and all previous versions
Material & Texture Support
Import SketchUp models with materials and textures intact
Smart Transformations
Auto-adjust scale, rotation, and up vector during import
Pricing - SketchUp to Blender Plugin
Professional SKP Importer
Convert SketchUp
to Blender
Installation Guide: How to Import SketchUp to Blender
- Step 1: Open Blender (version 2.8 or newer).
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Step 2: Navigate to Edit > Preferences.
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Step 3: Click on Add-ons, then select the dropdown arrow and click
Install from Disk.
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Step 4: Locate the downloaded ZIP file and click Install from Disk.
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Step 5: Go to the SimLab tab and locate the SKP Importer section.
- Step 6: To import a SketchUp file, go to File > Import > SketchUp (.skp)
- Step 7: For trial activation, open Settings and follow these license steps .
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can Blender open SKP files without an add-on?
Blender does not ship with a built-in SketchUp (.skp) importer, so an add-on is needed. SimLab's SKP Importer adds File > Import > SketchUp (.skp) to Blender 2.8 through 5.1 and reads files saved by SketchUp 2025 and older.
- Why choose SimLab's SketchUp importer over a free Blender add-on?
SimLab's importer supports current Blender releases up to 5.1 and SketchUp files up to 2025, runs on Windows and macOS, and keeps materials, textures and component hierarchies. A subscription includes updates for new Blender releases, and you can test it free for 14 days.
- Do I need to export from SketchUp to OBJ or FBX first?
No. The SimLab importer reads .skp files directly in Blender, so there is no intermediate OBJ, FBX or Collada step. Materials, textures and groups come across from the SketchUp file itself.
- Is the SketchUp importer for Blender a one-time purchase?
No, it is an annual subscription at $72 per year, billed annually, installable on two machines. If the subscription expires, the plugin keeps working with the last version you had access to.
What versions of SketchUp files can I import to Blender?
Our plugin supports all SketchUp files readable by SketchUp 2025 and older versions, including both free and pro SKP file formats. The importer handles components, groups, and nested hierarchies perfectly.
Does the SketchUp to Blender plugin preserve materials and textures?
Yes, the importer fully preserves materials, colors, and textures. All material properties including diffuse colors, texture maps, transparency, and reflectivity are accurately transferred from SketchUp to Blender.
How do I fix scale and orientation when importing SketchUp to Blender?
The plugin includes automatic transformation tools. You can adjust the up vector (Y-up or Z-up), apply rotation corrections, and set a scaling multiplier during import to match your Blender scene setup.
What data is imported from SketchUp to Blender?
The plugin transfers geometries, materials, textures, component hierarchies, groups, layers, and scene organization. UV mapping and texture coordinates are preserved for accurate material display.
Which versions of Blender support the SketchUp importer?
The plugin supports Blender 5.1, 4.0, 3.x, and all versions back to Blender 2.8. It works on both Windows and macOS operating systems with native performance.
Can I import large SketchUp models into Blender?
Yes, the plugin handles large architectural models and complex scenes efficiently. It optimizes geometry during import and maintains performance even with detailed SketchUp models containing thousands of components.
Subscription License Benefits:
Will I get updates with a subscription license?
Yes, subscription licenses include all updates and new features. You'll always have access to the latest version compatible with new Blender releases.
What happens when my subscription expires?
You can renew your subscription (auto-renewal available) or let it expire. The plugin will continue working with the last version you had access to during your subscription period.
How do I activate my SketchUp to Blender plugin license?
After purchase, you'll receive a license key. Follow the step-by-step activation guide. For support, email license@simlab-soft.com
Free Trial Information:
How long is the free trial for the SketchUp importer?
The trial license is valid for 14 days or 30 uses, whichever comes first. No credit card required. Get your trial license here.
Model appears too large or small in Blender
Use the Scale Multiplier option in import settings. Common values: 0.01 for mm to meters, 0.0254 for inches to meters. The plugin remembers your last used settings.
Import option not appearing in File menu
Ensure the addon is enabled in Preferences > Add-ons. Search for "SimLab" and check the box next to "SimLab SKP Importer". Save preferences to keep it enabled.
Use Cases: SketchUp to Blender Workflow
Architectural Visualization
Import SketchUp architectural models into Blender for advanced rendering with Cycles or Eevee. Add realistic lighting, materials, and post-processing effects.
Game Asset Pipeline
Convert SketchUp models to Blender for game-ready optimization. Retopology, UV unwrapping, and texture baking for Unity or Unreal Engine.
Product Design Iteration
Quickly iterate designs between SketchUp's intuitive modeling and Blender's advanced sculpting and rendering capabilities.
Animation & Motion Graphics
Import SketchUp scenes to Blender for animation. Add physics simulations, particle effects, and cinematic camera movements.
Start Converting SketchUp to Blender Today
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