SketchUp Make 2017 is widely considered the last "true" free desktop version of SketchUp. Unlike the current web-based "SketchUp Free", this 2017 version allows for offline use and supports third-party extensions. Where to Find It
Official downloads from the SketchUp Support pages have been removed as of mid-2022. However, community members frequently share reliable archived versions:
The Internet Archive: Often cited as the safest repository for the original installer files for both Windows and Mac.
Community Forums: Sites like OpenBuilds and Reddit host verified links to the last-known clean installation files. Key Benefits over the Web Version
Extensions & Plugins: You can use essential add-ons like Solid Inspector2 for 3D printing or CleanUp3 to optimize file sizes.
Offline Access: It runs entirely on your local machine without needing a constant internet connection.
Full Toolset: Access to tools like Outliner, which helps organize complex models and is currently locked behind a paywall in the web version. Critical Limitations to Know
is the final free-to-download desktop version of SketchUp. While Trimble now pushes a web-based "Free" version, many users prefer 2017 because it remains local to your computer and supports certain extensions. 1. Installation & Initial Setup
Since Trimble no longer officially hosts 2017 on their primary servers, you must find reputable mirrors or old forum links. Installation:
After running the executable, ignore prompts to upgrade to "Pro" or add a license. Trial Phase: Note that SketchUp Make 2017 often starts with a 30-day trial of Pro features sketchup 2017 free version
. Once the trial ends, the software will automatically revert to the standard free "Make" version. Template Selection: On the launch screen, go to the
tab. For beginners, the "Simple Template - Meters" or "Feet and Inches" is recommended. SketchUp Community 2. Interface Navigation
To move around your 3D space, it is highly recommended to use a three-button mouse Click and hold the Middle Mouse Button (Scroll Wheel) to rotate your view. Scroll Wheel in and out. Shift + Middle Mouse Button to move the view side-to-side or up and down. 3. Core Drawing Tools
Most basic modeling starts with these tools located in the top toolbar: How to install and run SketchUp Make 2017 in Linux - Guide
SketchUp Make 2017 is the final desktop-based free version of SketchUp released for non-commercial, personal use. While Trimble has since shifted its free offering to a web-based platform, SketchUp Make 2017 remains a popular choice for hobbyists who prefer offline software. Key Features & Text Tools
2D Labels: Use the Text tool to add leader lines and annotations that remain viewable as you orbit the model.
3D Text: Found under the Tools menu or via the Rectangle tool submenu, this allows you to create physical 3D geometry from custom text.
Offline Functionality: Unlike the current SketchUp Free web app, Make 2017 runs locally on your computer. Usage & Limitations
Personal Use Only: It is explicitly licensed for non-commercial projects. Using it for professional work or paid commissions generally requires a Pro subscription. SketchUp Make 2017 is widely considered the last
Trial Period: Upon first installation, SketchUp Make 2017 often starts as a 30-day trial of the Pro version. Once the trial expires, the software automatically reverts to the permanent free "Make" version.
Availability: While no longer prominently featured on the main SketchUp homepage, installers can often still be found through legacy download links on official community forums or support pages. How to Make 3D Text in SketchUp
SketchUp Make 2017 is widely considered the "holy grail" for hobbyists because it was the last version of SketchUp to offer a free, fully functional desktop application Overview of SketchUp Make 2017
While Trimble (the developers) officially retired it in late 2017 to shift toward the web-based SketchUp Free
, this version remains popular because it supports offline use and local file management. Key Features Desktop-Based
: Runs directly on your PC or Mac without needing a constant internet connection. Extension Support
: Unlike the current web-based free version, the 2017 desktop version supports Ruby API extensions, allowing you to install thousands of community-made plugins. Comprehensive Tools
: Includes most core modeling features found in the Pro version, such as advanced geometry editing and 3D Warehouse access. Non-Commercial Use
: It is legally licensed only for private, personal use. Any commercial or "for-profit" work requires a SketchUp Pro subscription. Availability and Status Official Support Simple room interior with furniture and lighting
: Trimble no longer hosts installers for SketchUp Make 2017 and only provides downloads for the most recent two versions of SketchUp Pro. Unofficial Sources
: Many users still find installers on reputable third-party software archives like the Internet Archive
or community forums, though caution is advised when downloading from unofficial sites. System Compatibility
Trimble now offers a legitimate free version called SketchUp Free – entirely in your web browser.
| Feature | SketchUp Free (Web) | |---------|----------------------| | Platform | Browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox) | | Cost | Free (Trimble account required) | | Storage | 10 GB cloud | | Core modeling tools | ✅ Yes | | Extensions | ❌ No (not supported) | | Export options | STL, PNG, SKP | | Commercial use | ❌ No (personal only) | | Works offline | ❌ No (requires internet) |
Get it here: https://app.sketchup.com (sign up for free)
Do not download "SketchUp Pro 2017 Trial" – that expires after 30 days. Look specifically for the file labeled "SketchUpMake-xx-xx-xx.exe" (Windows) or .dmg (Mac).
✅ Get SketchUp Studio for Education (free if your school is eligible) or use the web version.
In the world of 3D modeling, few names resonate as powerfully as SketchUp. Known for its intuitive push-pull technology and a steep learning curve that is more like a gentle hill, it has become the go-to tool for architects, woodworkers, game designers, and 3D printing enthusiasts.
However, the software landscape changed dramatically after Trimble acquired SketchUp from Google. The current web-based "SketchUp Free" is robust, but it lacks the offline capabilities and extension support that professionals crave. This brings us to a golden relic: SketchUp 2017 free version.
Why is a six-year-old version still trending? Because SketchUp 2017 represents the last standalone, desktop-based installer that Trimble offered as a truly free, unrestricted product. This article is your complete encyclopedia on finding, installing, optimizing, and legally using SketchUp 2017 Free.