| Category | Feature & Description | | :--- | :--- | | | Profiles : Core 2D shapes extruded along paths (e.g., steel I-beams, molding). Assemblies : Combine unlimited Profiles & Components into smart, path-based objects (e.g., railings, walls, cabinets). | | ⚙️ Editing & Flexibility | Editable Holes : Create and edit parametric openings in nested components. Easy Profile Swapping : Quickly change a model's profile even after it's built. Trimming & Joining : Tools for fine-tuning complex intersections. | | 📊 Data & Quantification | Instant Cost & Quantity Reports : The Quantifier tool automatically generates material take-offs and cost estimates directly from your model. |
This plugin is a powerful asset for any professional who regularly models complex, linear objects or needs to generate accurate material take-offs. However, for a beginner just learning the basics of SketchUp, it's best to master the native tools first before adding extensions to your workflow.
PB2 introduced several groundbreaking features that transformed workflow efficiency: 1. Smart Profile Creation and Manipulation DM Profile Builder 2 Plugin for Sketchup
Say goodbye to manual Follow Me struggles. With PB2, you can: Save your own custom profile libraries 📚
| Native Follow Me | Profile Builder 2 | |----------------|-------------------| | One-time extrusion | Fully parametric & editable | | Destructive (can’t easily change profile or path) | Non-destructive (edit profile or path anytime) | | No library of profiles | Built-in + custom profile library | | Difficult to reuse profiles across models | Profiles are saved and portable | | No automatic end caps or miters | Handles miters, cuts, and caps | | Category | Feature & Description | |
Installing and using the DM Profile Builder 2 plugin is a straightforward process:
: Widely used by architects and interior designers for moldings, framing, and piping. Easy Profile Swapping : Quickly change a model's
Developed by Dale Martens (Whaat) of MindSight Studios , this extension supercharges SketchUp’s basic "Follow Me" tool. It converts standard 2D vector shapes into dynamic, editable 3D objects like walls, moulding, piping, and complex assemblies.
: Automatically calculate costs based on length, area, or volume.
15 minutes of manual cleanup reduced to 15 seconds.
The learning curve is shallow. If you know how to draw a line in SketchUp, you know how to use Profile Builder. The parametric options are tucked away in dialogs that don't clutter the screen until you need them.