Toolbar Editor Sketchup

SketchUp power users often have 10+ extensions (e.g., V-Ray, PlaceMaker, Skalp, Fredo6). Instead of having three separate extension toolbars taking up screen real estate:

SketchUp is known for its intuitive interface, but as your workflow grows, so does the need for a personalized setup. Enter the Toolbar Editor—a built-in feature that puts you in complete control of your toolbar layout and tool sets.

When dragging an icon from the Toolbar Editor window to a toolbar, hold the Shift key. This will copy the icon. Why does this matter? If you remove the Circle tool from the Draw toolbar but want to keep a Circle tool on your custom bar, you must Shift+Drag. Otherwise, you are moving the original, which leaves an empty spot in the default toolbar.

For years, one of the most common complaints among SketchUp power users was the rigidity of the interface. Users were forced to navigate a sea of floating toolbars or memorize obscure keyboard shortcuts. With the introduction of the Toolbar Editor (fully realized in SketchUp 2021 and refined in subsequent versions), Trimble finally handed the keys to the user.

Here is an in-depth review of this feature, how it works, and whether it truly improves the modeling workflow. toolbar editor sketchup

This is where the Toolbar Editor truly becomes magical. If you use extensions (like V-Ray, Artisan, Skalp, or Curviloft), you know they often dump 20 icons onto your screen in random order.

Using the Toolbar Editor, you can cherry-pick only the extension tools you use.

How to filter Extension Tools:

Pro Tip: Create a toolbar called "Extensions Hub." Fill it only with the 5 most powerful commands from your 3 favorite extensions. This prevents "toolbar sprawl" where your screen looks like a control panel for a spaceship. SketchUp power users often have 10+ extensions (e

Some extensions do not automatically register their icons. If you install an extension and can’t find its tools in the categories list, look for a category called "Out of Date" or "Uncategorized." Many developers forget to properly tag their icons. You will find them here, and you can drag them to your custom toolbar manually.

By taking five minutes to organize your interface, you create a more comfortable modeling environment tailored specifically to your style.

Accessing the Toolbar Editor:

Using the Toolbar Editor:

The Toolbar Editor allows you to:

Tips:

By using the Toolbar Editor, you can tailor your SketchUp interface to your specific needs and workflow, making it more efficient and productive.

If you have any toolbar visible, look at the far right edge of that toolbar. You will see a small double-chevron (») or a down arrow. Click it and select Toolbar Editor. Pro Tip: Create a toolbar called "Extensions Hub

Once open, a small, floating window appears. This is your command center.