Paneling Tools remains the best choice if you work primarily in Rhino’s CDE interface (not Grasshopper). It is simpler and faster for quick facade studies.
Do not download Paneling Tools from third-party "free plugin" aggregators. Many contain outdated versions or malware. The plugin is 100% free and open-source from the official developer.
Link your paneling to Grasshopper for real-time adjustments. paneling tools rhino download
PanelingTools isn't just a simple grid generator; it is a comprehensive suite for parametric design.
Apply flat patterns or complex 3D "morphing" geometry to your grids. Paneling Tools remains the best choice if you
Locate the downloaded .exe or .rhl file in your Downloads folder.
Use the command ptPanelCustom to select your grid and then your panel object. Rhino will automatically "flow" or "morph" your object into every cell of the grid, following the curvature of the surface perfectly. 💡 Why Use PanelingTools? Many contain outdated versions or malware
| Issue | Likely Solution | | :--- | :--- | | "Unknown command: ptGridSurface" | Plugin didn't load. Type PluginManager → Find PanelingTools → Click "Load". | | Installation fails on Rhino 8 | Rhino 8 requires specific builds. Ensure you downloaded the "Rhino 8" tagged file, not Rhino 7. | | Command works but toolbar is blank | Corrupted toolbar scheme. Run ToolbarReset in Rhino command line. | | Grasshopper components missing | In Grasshopper → File → Special Folders → Components Folder . Ensure PanelingTools.gha is present. Remove and reinstall if not. | | Mac install not working | Mac support for PanelingTools lags slightly behind Windows. Use Rhino 8 for Mac with Rosetta mode enabled. |
Do download the "Grasshopper User Objects" unless you only use Grasshopper; download the full .rhl installer.