So what if the last time you did any 3D modeling it was with Play-Doh? You’re a hot-shot designer. An architect. Just interested in learning more about graphic modeling. That means finding your footing when it comes to graphics and modeling using today’s tools. Unfortunately, your self-training budget doesn’t allow for a splurge on the high end 3D modeling software programs such as Maya and Cinema 4D.

Unless you’re happy with Play-Doh you might consider stepping up to Google SketchUp , a powerdul 3D modeling program and one of Google Lab’s best kept secrets. SketchUp is a full modeling platform with tools that riving the industry’s leading software. The free version, Google SketchUp, gives you the full range of tools to model, scale and texture objects scenes and architecture to your heart’s content but you can only export your designs in Google’s .kmz file format – which can be uploaded to Google Earth. The Pro version of SkethUp, retailing at a resonable $495, allows you to save your masterpiece in a variety of file formates ranging from .3ds to .obj.

Even if you know nothing about 3D modeling, SketchUp’s user friendly interface makes it easy to get started and more advanced tools will appeal to anyone with a passing familiarity with modeling platforms. While at the end of the day SketchUp isn’t going to replace the high end 3D modeling programs, SketchUp Pro and Google SketchUp are excellent low-cost or free 3D modeling tools where you can develop your graphic design skills. What better way to mould your CV into the perfect shape?