This feature is designed to give users granular control over their workspace, allowing them to create custom toolbars, reorganize tools to suit their workflow, and declutter the interface.
1. How to Access the Toolbar Editor
The method to open the editor differs slightly depending on your operating system:
- Windows: Go to View > Toolbars in the top menu bar.
- macOS: Go to View > Customize Toolbar.
- Shortcut: On both platforms, you can often right-click on any empty gray space in the toolbar area and select Customize or Toolbars from the context menu.
Part 2: How to Access the Toolbar Editor
Before you build your masterpiece, you need to know where the control panel is. The location varies slightly depending on your operating system and version (Make vs Pro).
Method 1: The Context Menu (Fastest)
- Right-click (or Ctrl+click on Mac) on any existing toolbar icon or the gray empty space at the top of your SketchUp window.
- A long drop-down menu will appear showing all default toolbars (Large Tool Set, Views, Sections, etc.).
- Look at the very bottom of that list. You will see Toolbars... (Windows) or Customize Toolbar... (Mac).
- Click it.
Method 2: The View Menu
- Navigate to the top menu bar.
- Click View > Toolbars.
- Click Customize (or Toolbars again depending on version).
The Interface: Once open, you will see a window listing every single command SketchUp can perform—organized by category (Draw, Modify, Camera, etc.). This is your parts bin.
Note for Mac Users: The Toolbar Editor on Mac is slightly different. It often requires you to drag icons directly from the "Customize" sheet onto your toolbar, rather than creating floating palettes. However, the principles remain the same.
Problem 4: "I accidentally deleted the default 'Getting Started' toolbar."
- Solution: Open the Toolbar Editor. Click Options (or the gear icon) in the Toolbar Editor window. Select Reset All Toolbars. This restores every default toolbar to factory settings without deleting your custom ones.
Troubleshooting
- Missing icons: Ensure the extension providing the tool is enabled; restart SketchUp after installing/uninstalling extensions.
- Toolbar won’t save position: Check preferences or workspace saving options; update SketchUp if the issue persists.
- Icons are too small/large: Adjust display scaling or UI settings in your OS or SketchUp preferences.
4. Creating Separators
If you want to visually group tools together (for example, keeping all "Drawing" tools separate from "Modification" tools), you can add a separator.
- How to do it: When the editor is open, look for a "Spacer" or "Flexible Space" option in the list of items. Drag this onto your toolbar just like a tool. It creates a small gap or a line that helps organize your tools visually.