Toolbar Editor Sketchup

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.

Problem: "I closed the Toolbar Editor, and my new toolbar vanished!" Solution: You likely dragged it to an edge and it auto-docked, or you closed the floating window. Go to View > Toolbars and check the box next to your custom toolbar's name.

Problem: "I can't drag icons anymore!" Solution: The Toolbar Editor must be open to move icons. If the Editor is closed, SketchUp assumes you want to click the tools, not rearrange them.

Problem: "My toolbar is huge / icons are small." Solution: This is a Windows display scaling issue. Right-click your SketchUp desktop shortcut > Properties > Compatibility > Change high DPI settings > Override high DPI scaling (try "Application" or "System").

Problem: "I accidentally deleted the default 'Large Tool Set'." Solution: Don't panic. Right-click the toolbar area > Toolbars > Check "Large Tool Set." It resets instantly. You cannot permanently delete native bars—only hide them.


Group similar tools together. For example:

The Toolbar Editor in SketchUp is a small but powerful feature that streamlines your modeling workflow by letting you customize which tools and icons appear on your toolbars. Whether you’re optimizing the UI for speed, setting up a simplified workspace for clients or students, or grouping specialty extensions for quick access, configuring toolbars saves time and reduces visual clutter. toolbar editor sketchup

Build several role-based custom toolbars and switch between them as your task changes—this provides the speed of a minimalist UI without sacrificing access to specialty tools.

Related search suggestions prepared.

Optimizing your SketchUp workspace is critical for a smooth design workflow. While SketchUp has basic built-in tools for arranging icons, many power users turn to the Toolbar Editor extension to overcome native limitations, such as the inability to mix native tools with those from various plugins into a single bar. 1. Why Use a Toolbar Editor?

The native SketchUp toolbar system (found under View > Toolbars) allows you to toggle preset toolsets like the "Large Tool Set" or "Views". However, as your library of extensions grows, your screen can quickly become cluttered with dozens of small, floating windows. A dedicated Toolbar Editor helps by:

Consolidating Tools: You can combine your most-used functions from different plugins (like Joint Pushpull or Curviloft) into one custom bar.

Searchability: Editors often include search filters to help you find specific tools tucked away in complex plugins. SketchUp is known for its intuitive interface, but

Space Management: By creating a single "Master Toolbar," you maximize your drawing area while keeping essential tools within one click. 2. Key Extensions for Toolbar Management

Toolbar Editor (by Aurelius): A popular choice for creating personalized toolbars. It features an intuitive drag-and-drop interface and allows you to rename and organize custom sets easily.

Lord of the Toolbars (by Fredo6): A comprehensive management system that creates a "Vignette Stripe" to access all your extensions from the top of the interface. It requires the LibFredo6 library to function. 3. How to Set Up Your Custom Workspace

If you are using a plugin like Aurelius's Toolbar Editor, the general setup process involves: Open the Editor: Navigate to Window > Toolbar Editor.

Create a New Bar: Click the "+" button to name your new custom toolbar.

Drag and Drop: Browse the list of available icons (both native and third-party) and drag them into your new panel. Group similar tools together

Apply and Restart: Click "Apply" to save your changes. Some edits may require a restart of SketchUp to appear. 4. Pro Tips for an Efficient Layout Set Up Toolbars & Palettes in SketchUp


The location has changed slightly over the years, but here is how to find it in modern SketchUp (2021 and later):

Alternatively, you can Right-click on any existing toolbar icon (like the Select or Line tool) and choose "Customize Toolbar."

SketchUp is a canvas, but the Toolbar Editor is the frame. A disorganized toolbar leads to a disorganized brain. By spending just 15 minutes with the Toolbar Editor—creating custom bars, removing unused icons, and consolidating extensions—you can reduce your modeling time by up to 20%.

Don't settle for the default layout. Open View > Toolbars > Toolbar Editor today and build the SketchUp workspace you've always dreamed of.