Sketch on 3D Models >

Import 3D Model

Importing your 3D model files into Trace is the first step to creating stunning illustrations, diagrams, or marking up your 3D model. Below you can learn how to prep your 3D model so you can import it into Trace without an issue.

Architecture 3D model and drawings by Amin Zakaria.


How to Import 3D Models

You can import a 3D model into Trace from any 3D model software.


Step 1. Create Your 3D Model

Use your preferred 3D model software including SketchUp for iPad, Shapr3D, AutoCAD, Rhino, Revit, 3DS Max, TinkerCAD, or UMake to create a 3D model.

Pro Tip
Trace is a 2D drawing app so be sure to do all of your 3D modeling in your favorite 3D modeling app.

Import 3D Model

Screenshot from SketchUp for iPad.




Step 2. Export Your 3D Model

Export your 3D model as an OBJ, STL or USDZ file. Be sure that you only have mesh objects in your file (no curves, splines, NURBS surfaces, etc). If you create your 3D model in SketchUp for iPad, you can tap "Export USDZ" and open the file directly in Trace.

Pro Tip
If you need help with this, just search for how to export an OBJ file from your preferred 3D model software.

Import 3D Model

Screenshot from SketchUp for iPad.




Step 3. Start 3D Model Project

Tap the "+" button and then select "3D Model" to create a 3D model project. Then, navigate to your 3D model in the Files app. Tap the file to import your 3D model into Trace.

Import 3D Model


How To Videos

Learn how to import 3D models from SketchUp for iPad to Morpholio Trace.



Enjoy this how to video highlighting how to sketch on 3D models.


Additional Resources

Watch how to sketch on 3D models with Shadow Maker with Jim Akers

Watch the Video >


Meet "Shadow Maker"

Read More Here >


How To...Sketch with "Live" 3D Models

Read More Here >



Version: 5.3

About Morpholio Trace - Sketch Cad

Why Morpholio Trace for Architects, Landscape Architecture and Interior Designers?

Awarded Best Apps for architects, landscape architects, and interior designers, Trace is the dream sketch cad and architecture drawing software. Featured as both, the best app for iPad Pro and the best app for Apple Pencil, Trace combines the beauty and speed of sketching with the intelligence and precision of CAD. Whether you’re drawing project concepts, sketching through schematic design and designing architectural details, or just drawing on-site visits through construction administration and making high-res PDF drawing set markups, Morpholio Trace is everything you need for your new favorite architect app, landscape design app, or interior design app all in one. Welcome to the new best drawing app for iPad Pro.


Morpholio Trace Ecosystem

Morpholio drawing apps are not only named as the best app for architects, best app for architecture, best app for interior design, best design app, best app for landscape architects, and best app for iPad Pro, but they also now work as a perfect complement to, and seamlessly with your favorite architectural software, architecture apps, cad software, cad app, and interior design software. This includes Autodesk AutoCad, TinkerCad, Revit, SketchUp, SketchUp Viewer, Rhino, Pinterest, Adobe Photoshop, Shapr3D, UMake, and many more. In addition, your Apple iPad Pro, iPhone, and Apple Pencil will never be more exciting to use as Morpholio’s suite of drawing, design, and sketching apps become even more essential in your design process.