While newer versions (PB3, PB4) exist, Profile Builder 2 revolutionized how SketchUp users approach modeling, acting as a "smart" extension that turns basic 3D forms into intelligent, editable, and quantifiable components. What is Profile Builder 2 for SketchUp?
: The plugin automatically handles corners, mitering profiles at both inside and outside junctions to ensure clean geometry. Smart-Path Selection
(by Dale Martens) is a powerful extension for SketchUp that allows you to create, edit, and manage parametric profiles (extruded shapes along paths). Think of it as a smart “follow-me” tool on steroids. Instead of manually extruding a face along a path, you define a profile once and apply it instantly to any path — with the ability to go back and change the profile, path, or both at any time.
Profile Builder 2 included comprehensive documentation. After installation, users could access the complete user guide by navigating to . DM Profile Builder 2 Plugin for Sketchup
Ensure your initial 2D profiles have no stray lines or open gaps before saving them.
: Unlike the native "Follow Me" tool, you can adjust settings without redrawing.
When creating custom profiles from 2D faces, keep the segment count of arcs and curves reasonably low. High-segment counts can bloat file sizes and slow down viewport performance when extruded over massive distances. If you want to take your modeling further, let me know: While newer versions (PB3, PB4) exist, Profile Builder
Here’s a helpful overview of the , focusing on what it does, who it’s for, and why you might use it.
: Use standard SketchUp tools (like the Line or Circle tool) to draw a 2D face or polyline. Define the Profile : Select the face or polyline.
The table below outlines the key differences between Profile Builder 2 and SketchUp's native tools. Smart-Path Selection (by Dale Martens) is a powerful
| Tool | Description | | :--- | :--- | | | Expand or divide profile members along paths | | Revolve a Profile | Create parametric 3D revolved bodies | | Trimming Tools | Cut and trim profile members cleanly | | Smart-Path Select Tool | Intelligently select connected path segments (extremely powerful for complex routes) | | Quantifier Tool | Generate instant quantity reports | | Instant Cost Estimates | Get real-time cost calculations based on assigned material and layer data |
When using the full licensed version, you can assign costs and weight data to layers and materials, enabling for selected objects. Unit weights and unit costs can be associated with particular layers, while surface area costs can be linked to specific materials — perfect for finishes like paint, flooring, tile, or varnish.
DM Profile Builder 2 (DPB2) is a SketchUp extension that streamlines creation of 2D/3D profiles and parametric assemblies for architecture, millwork, metalwork, framing, and furniture. This guide explains what DPB2 does, why it’s useful, key features, installation and setup, practical workflows, tips for efficiency, troubleshooting, and examples to help you integrate DPB2 into real projects.
While Profile Builder 1 focused on single extrusions, version 2 introduced the "Assembly" concept. This allows you to group multiple profiles together. For example, a "Wall Assembly" could include the bottom plate, the top plate, and the studs, all spaced at a specific interval. When you draw your path, the entire wall system—framing and all—is generated in one go. For residential builders and timber framers, this feature alone cuts hours off a workflow.
