While SketchUp has always been great at geometry, it lacks native tools for fabrication preparation. Slicer5 fills this gap by automating the tedious process of creating cross-sections, arranging them for cutting, and generating assembly guides.

| Feature | Benefit | | :--- | :--- | | | Automatically adds notches so slices lock together like a puzzle (no glue required). | | Slice Direction | Choose X, Y, or Z axis—or even a radial slice for circular objects. | | Material Thickness | Input your exact plywood, acrylic, or foam thickness. The plugin compensates for kerf (the material burned away by lasers). | | Grouping | Outputs each slice as a separate group or a flat layout for nesting. | | Precise Scaling | Works in real-world units (inches/mm). |

Download Slicer5 from the SketchUcation forums today. Create a simple sphere. Slice it into 10mm layers. Cut it on your laser cutter. Assemble it. Once you see that first physical slice stack in your hands, you will never design for fabrication the same way again.

The interface of Slicer5 is designed to be straightforward, but the sheer number of options can be intimidating for first-timers. Here is a breakdown of the workflow.