Create Non-Rectangular Viewports in SketchUp Pro

The Layout functionality in SketchUp Pro will assist you in the process of creating a presentation from your model. You can start from a template that may contain a customised frame and logo and then insert one or more views of the model with the help of viewports.

Create Non-Rectangular Viewports in SketchUp Pro

In the following lines, you will find a step by step guide on how to create a viewport with a customised shape.

We start by sending our model to Layout. From SketchUp Pro, access the File menu and select ‘Send to Layout…’.

After choosing the template, a new page will be created in Layout with a rectangular viewport showing the model. You can resize the viewport by clicking and dragging on the border. If you would like to show the model at a particular scale, that option can be found by simply right clicking on the viewport.

If you double click inside the viewport, you will be able to change the zoom level and camera angle by simply orbiting, zooming and panning in the model, as you would do in the main SketchUp Pro application.

Draw a shape on top of the viewport using the toolbar. We will draw an ellipse in this example.

The shape will be initially drawn as solid, you can turn off the fill from the ‘Shape Style’ panel of the default tray, as shown below. Note that you will need to select the shape first.

Select both the shape and the viewport. You can achieve this by clicking on both objects while holding the Control key. Then select ‘Create Clipping Mask’ from the right click menu.

That will cut the viewport into the desired shape.

If you would like to know more about SketchUp Pro and its capabilities visit our product page.


Hidden Risks You Might Be Ignoring

21 May 2025

In this month’s IT Bulletin, we’re shedding light on the cybersecurity threats that often go unnoticed — but can have serious consequences for businesses of any size.

How to Simplify Configuration for your Engineering Software

20 May 2025

In this blog, we’ll look at some common challenges teams face when configuring engineering software and share practical tips on how to simplify the process. We’ll also explain how Symetri’s solutions can help you optimise your software setup, reduce errors, and keep your projects running smoothly.

4 ways to optimise your construction projects in the cloud

19 May 2025

Managing a growing number of Autodesk BIM 360 or Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) projects can quickly become overwhelming - especially when it comes to project setup, user management, and data backups. With the right tools, you can eliminate manual inefficiencies, boost productivity, and focus on more strategic initiatives. If your team works with BIM 360 or ACC, this blog focuses on four powerful ways Naviate Cloud Manager can streamline your operations.