Google Introduces 3D Modeling with Google SketchUp   4/27/2006 - 918 views,

Explains Google, “Google SketchUp is an easy-to-learn 3D modeling program that enables you to explore the world in 3D. With just a few simple tools, you can create 3D models of houses, sheds, decks, home additions, woodworking projects - even space ships. And once you’ve built your models, you can place them in Google Earth, post them to the 3D Warehouse, or print hard copies.”

Google Sketch Up allows you to:

“Click on a shape and push or pull it to create your desired 3D geometry.

Experiment with color and texture directly on your model.

Real-time shadow casting lets you see exactly where the sun falls as you model.

Select from thousands of pre-drawn components to save time drawing.”

And best of all, it’s free! (Although there is also a professional version, with a host of other features, for $495.00!)

You can check out Google SketchUp, and download the free version, here.