skp

Skp is the native file format used by SketchUp, a 3D modeling program developed originally by @Last Software and later acquired by Google and then Trimble. SKP files store a complete SketchUp model, including geometry, textures and materials, as well as components and groups, layers or tags, scenes, cameras, and associated metadata such as author notes and model properties.

A typical SKP model contains 3D data such as vertices, edges, and faces, with applied materials and texture mappings. It supports components and dynamic components for reuse, along with nested groups and layers for organization. Scenes capture camera positions and view settings, while styles, shadows, and other display options control the presentation of the model. Texture images may be embedded in the file or referenced alongside the model data.

SKP files are primarily designed for use within SketchUp across Windows and macOS. They can be saved with multiple versions in mind, and a conventional backup is stored with a .skb extension. Compatibility between SKP versions is generally maintained within a product line, though newer features may not be available in older SKP files.

Interoperability is a key aspect, as SKP models can be exported to or imported from other formats such as COLLADA (.dae), OBJ, FBX, 3DS, and STL, often via built-in tools or plugins. SketchUp models are widely used in architecture, interior design, construction, woodworking, and related industries, including for 3D printing and visualization. The SKP format is proprietary, with official documentation limited, but the SketchUp Ruby API and various plugins enable external tools to extend or automate workflows.