Once you deform an object with Sketchy FFD, the lattice disappears. The geometry remains "hard," meaning you can apply textures, cut sections, or even run a second FFD pass on the deformed object.
(Free-Form Deformation) is the game-changer you need. Originally developed by Chris Phillips and now managed by mind.sight.studios
For years, SketchUp was criticized for being too "boxy." Sketchy FFD changed that narrative by allowing users to wrap a "control cage" (a grid of dots) around any 3D object. Organic Magic:
SketchyFFD (Classic) ... The classic free-form deformation plugin you know and love. Manipulate a mesh using control points. Extension Warehouse SketchyFFD (Classic) - SketchUp Extension Warehouse