Question about 3d backgrounds like sketchup

rikukuchi 2020-10-10 18:20:17 UTC #1

Ive read the tos of 3dwarehouse but no matter how much i reread i couldnt seem to understand- either im dumb or my english reading skills isnt good but first is it possible to use a sketchup/3dwarehouse model online and use it as reference? or second which is trace over some factors of it while adding more design or just redesigning, or is any sort of usage not allowed?
and if so is there any 3d programs that allow for commercial use like clip studio paint?

honeyandcreambutter 2020-10-10 18:30:41 UTC #2

You can use sketchup to design your backgrounds only if you aren't making profit off from your webtoons/comics (this includes Patreon or tips I believe). If you're making profit, it counts as using sketchup for commercial purposes, in which case you need to buy the pro license (a whooping $299 a year by the way! But if you can afford it then go ahead). Take note that even if you design your own entirely from scratch, you still need a pro license to use it if you're making profit. I'm not sure about redesigning it or trace overs though.

If you're looking for a 3D program similar to sketchup that isn't CSP, you can try using Blender. It has a steep learning curve but it's actually easier to use than Sketchup (or so I've heard). There are tons of guides online to help you create sketchup models. To save time, you can make basic outlines of the room or environment and then add on the colours, textures or furnitures on your art program.

JeanGuillet 2020-10-10 19:43:21 UTC #3

I also recommend to use Blender, it's worth it in the long run. Since the 2.8 release the learning curve isn't nearly as steep. it's actually easier than Sketchup, and much more flexible.

mcarrowolga 2020-10-10 19:47:35 UTC #4

Why bother with Sketchup at all?
I use Blender + free assets from Sketchfab and archive3D.

SleepingPoppy 2020-10-11 01:23:15 UTC #5

It's not a big deal to just use it as a reference, just don't use the actual model in your work. There's not really anyway the company could know if you're just getting, like, angles and perspective from it. Make sure it's your own design, though.

Blender is a good alternative, though.

artemficta 2020-10-11 13:13:41 UTC #6

I agree with using Blender over Sketchup as well. The ToS is indeed hella confusing for Sketchup model usage, I've combed over it several times as well and am still not sure. It's kind of use at your own risk. Blender is a much better program on the overall though anyway. Other sources of free models you can use are blendswap and turbosquid.

ninjashira 2020-10-11 13:59:11 UTC #7

Yeah like others said, you can reference Sketchup for certain things, but it can get a little complicated if you don't fully understand the limitations of the service.

I like building my own background models in TinkerCAD. It's a free browser-based 3D modeling software that's aimed at kids, so it's super easy to use (and uses a lot of the same basic controls as things like Maya, which makes it a little easier to transition into Maya if you ever wanna dip your toes into that). I did a whole write-up on how I do my backgrounds with TinkerCAD...

https://tapas.io/episode/1807394

TeddyLemon 2020-10-13 10:00:21 UTC #8

Heyahh it's good idea to try out other programs just like the other suggestions :))

I'll be that one post that wholly recommends Sketchup haha.

It's the only 3d program I know and the most I'm comfortable with, its pretty easy to use once you get used to it I agree too that there might come trouble when using models from the 3d warehouse if your comic is already earning (but to be honest I haven't seen anyone getting in trouble for it? Tho it's still best to be careful).

The safest way in my opinion is making your own background from scratch, using models like furnitures/material (from the warehouse) to decorate the room or building is fine too. If you have no idea how to create from scratch, try to deviate the original model and tweak it in a lot of places so it would look a lot far different (this is the scam method don't hate me for this pls, most webcomic artists are also guilty of this. I have to admit this.)

Most creators use sketchup as their bg and all the while earn from it. I just imagine they've done what I've suggested just now. Also, I've had an official webtoon creator commission sketchup backgrounds from me, still doing so to this day.

So yeah, using sketchup is not that all bad. Just don't take credit for the models. Whatever you're decision is, I wish you the best of luck!