how to make an arched doorway in sketchup

How to Create an Arched Doorway in SketchUp

By Christopher LeeJanuary 6, 2026

Creating an arched doorway in SketchUp can add a touch of elegance and style to your 3D models. Whether you're designing a home, a historical building, or a fantasy landscape, knowing how to create an arch can open up a world of possibilities. Let's dive into the process, step by step.

Before we begin, ensure you have SketchUp Pro or Free version installed. For this tutorial, we'll use SketchUp Free, which is accessible via your web browser. Now, let's get started!

Understanding Arches and Tools

Arches in SketchUp are essentially 3D shapes that follow a specific curve. They can be created using simple tools and a bit of creativity. Familiarize yourself with the following tools, which we'll use throughout this tutorial:

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Line Tool (or L): Draws straight lines.
Eraser Tool (or E): Deletes edges and faces.
Move Tool (or M): Moves objects in your model space.
Orbit Tool (or O): Rotates your view around the model.
3D Warehouse (Window > 3D Warehouse): Provides pre-made models and components.

Creating a Simple Arch

Let's start by creating a simple, flat arch. This will help you understand the basic concept before moving on to more complex shapes.

1. **Draw the Base**: Use the Line Tool to draw a straight line. This will serve as the base of your arch.

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2. **Create the Curve**: With the Line Tool still active, hover over one end of the line. A small circle will appear. Click and drag this circle to create a curve. This is the beginning of your arch.

3. **Close the Arch**: Continue drawing lines and curves until you've closed the arch. Use the Eraser Tool to delete any unwanted lines.

Creating an Arched Doorway

Now that you've mastered the basic arch, let's create an arched doorway. For this, we'll use the 3D Warehouse to import a door and then modify it.

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1. **Import a Door**: Open the 3D Warehouse and search for 'door'. Import a door model that you like.

2. **Modify the Door**: Use the Move Tool to position the door where you want your arched doorway to be. Then, use the Eraser Tool to delete the top part of the door frame. This will leave you with just the door itself.

3. **Create the Arch**: Use the Line and Eraser Tools to create an arch above the door, following the same steps as before. Make sure the arch is wide enough to accommodate the door.

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4. **Merge the Arch and Door**: Use the Move Tool to position the arch above the door. Then, use the Move Tool's 'Merge' option (right-click on the arch and select 'Merge') to combine the arch and door into a single object.

Exploring More Arch Options

SketchUp offers several ways to create and modify arches. Let's explore a couple more options.

Using the 3D Warehouse

The 3D Warehouse contains numerous arch models that you can import and use in your projects. These models can save you time and provide inspiration for your designs.

1. **Search the Warehouse**: Open the 3D Warehouse and search for 'arch'. You'll find a variety of arch models, from simple curves to complex, ornate designs.

2. **Import and Modify**: Import an arch model that you like. Use the Move Tool to position it in your model. You can also use the Scale Tool (or T) to resize the arch if needed.

Creating a Round Arch

A round arch is a type of arch with a circular outline. Creating one involves a bit more math, but it's still doable in SketchUp.

1. **Determine the Radius**: Decide on the radius of your arch. This is the distance from the center of the curve to the edge of the arch.

2. **Create the Center Line**: Use the Line Tool to draw a straight line. This will serve as the center of your arch.

3. **Create the Curve**: Use the Line Tool to draw a circle with the radius you determined earlier. This will be the outline of your arch.

4. **Close the Arch**: Use the Line and Eraser Tools to close the arch. Make sure the edges align with the center line.

Creating an arched doorway in SketchUp can greatly enhance the visual appeal of your models. Whether you're designing a home, a commercial building, or a fantasy landscape, arches can add a touch of elegance and style. So go ahead, experiment with different shapes and styles, and let your creativity run wild!