It is possible to bring vector shapes into SketchUp.
Google Sketchup is a 3D modeling application primary used to create rough designs for various structures. SketchUp comes with a number of tools that allow the user to lay out lines and shapes that can then be expanded or combined to produce a desired result. Often, though, a user might wish to import a shape from a vector program such as CorelDraw or Illustrator and use this as the basis of the model he wants to create. Unfortunately, SketchUp provides no utility for doing this directly; however, there is a work-around for this problem.
Instructions
1. Open your vector graphics program. Then open the vector graphics file that you want to use in SketchUp.
2. Export the vector graphics file from the program in a bitmap format, such as JPEG or GIF.
3. Open Google SketchUp. Select the default figure in the view and delete it.
4. Select "Camera" from the menu and choose "Standard Views." From the options, choose "Top."
5. Select "File" from the menu and choose "Import." In the dialog, browse to the image you exported in step 2 and open it.
6. Place the floating image that appears onto the ground in the view. Drag it to make it whatever size you like.
7. Select the "Line" tool from the toolbar and use it to trace the outer shape of the image. Then use it to trace the inner details. You can now use these shapes to create your model.
