3D Printing - Everything You Need To Know

Begin sketching in SolidWorks by choosing a plane and drawing lines, circles, arcs, and rectangles, then apply smart dimensions and relations to create fully defined geometry.

Learn to create complex sketches in SolidWorks by constructing circles, lines, and rectangles, applying relations and dimensions, and using mirror, offset, and linear or circular sketch patterns for 3D printing.

Create a fully defined SolidWorks sketch by using mirror entities, offset, linear pattern, and a fixed origin to define lines and angles for 3d modeling.

Sketch on photos in SolidWorks by using sketch tools and a transparent image, tracing shapes with ellipses and splines, setting dimensions and relations, then extruding to create 3D prints.

Master SolidWorks basics by sketching on the top or front plane and using extrude boss and extrude cut, then explore revolve, swept, loft features, plus fillet and chamfer.

Design your first 3D model in SolidWorks by sketching a front plane outline with rectangles, circles, and slots, then extrude, cut, fillet, and chamfer to finalize.

See how to build a fully defined SolidWorks model using extrude boss/cut, fillet, and chamfer on sketches and features.

Design a 3d model of Mickey by creating three circles, extruding them to form the head and features, then use extrude cut with a lighter thickness to reveal details.

Practice completing sketches using the provided sheet and shortcuts, ensuring figures are fully defined for extrusion in SolidWorks, including extrude boss/cut, fillet, and chamfer, and prepare for advanced 3D features.

Learn to create revolved features in 3d printing by sketching on the front plane, defining the rotation axis, and adding grooves with a semi-circle cut.

Explore sweep boss/cut in 3d printing by using perpendicular planes, guiding curves, and sketches to form a circular hole, pipes, and lofted features, with sectional views to inspect the geometry.

Explore reference planes in solid modeling, learning seven methods to create planes—from three-point and two-line references to parallel, perpendicular, and coincident planes—and apply them to position features for three-dimensional printing.

Explore loft base and loft cut techniques by building sketches on multiple reference planes, defining guide curves and profiles, and using loft operations to create complex 3d forms.

Master revolve-based and loft techniques to create realistic 3d models. Follow practice sheets and tutorials to sketch, define axis of revolution, and design hollow cups with center lines and handles.

Master extrude and extrude cut, using sectional views across planes to build models. Practice reference planes at angles, sketching circles and diameters, and defining dimensions for accurate symmetry.

Create and assemble the final three dimensional model by drawing geometry, using sectional views with planes, and applying extrude and extrude-cut operations to join multiple parts.

Learn to print 3D models in SolidWorks by configuring print 3D options, adjust printer volume and orientation, assess supports via preview, and export to .stl or import to your slicer.

Discover how to access 3D printing without owning a printer by using external services and sending your model or sketches to printing providers on Instagram.