# SOLIDWORKS for Makers

3D Modeling and Cloud-Based Design Tools for Personal Use

![SOLIDWORKS-for-makers-working-project](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/webp/public/migration/2024-08/solidworks-3dx-makers-banner.jpg.webp)

Start making today with SOLIDWORKS for Makers

### ### What is SOLIDWORKS for Makers?

SOLIDWORKS for Makers provides full-functionality 3D CAD tools for personal use for just $48 USD a year. It’s perfect for makers, hobbyists, and DIY enthusiasts, who generate less than $2,000 USD annually from their projects. Choose from two comprehensive design packages, that offer everything you need for your non-commercial projects. Enjoy the power and precision of SOLIDWORKS for personal use.

## Pick the Makers package that's right for you:

![](/sites/default/filesd10/2026-01/sw_design_monitor.png)

#### 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers

##### **Proven and powerful SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD**

**Features include:**

- 3D CAD: Locally Installed
- Local &amp; Cloud Storage
- Photorealistic Rendering
- 2.5 &amp; 3-Axis CAM
- Access to Learning Content and Maker Communities
​

**Devices Supported:**

- Windows PC
- Installation required

\*USA price for single user excluding local taxes.
Local pricing listed in cart. 15 day money back policy.

- [Buy $48 USD/year\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_Sculptor?licencingScheme=YSC)

- [Buy $15 USD/month\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_Sculptor?licencingScheme=MSC)

![](/sites/default/filesd10/inline-images/sw_tablet_xdesign-3.png)

#### SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers

##### **Next-generation of browser-based 3D CAD Apps**

**Features include:**

- Cloud 3D CAD: Browser-based
- Cloud Storage
- AI-powered Design Guidance and Design Assistant
- Cloud Rendering and Interactive 3D Presentations
- Simulation: Motion Studies
- Access to Learning Content and Maker Communities

**Devices Supported:**

- Chromebooks, MACs, Tablets, Windows PC
- No installation required

\*USA price for single user excluding local taxes.
Local pricing listed in cart. 15 day money back policy.

- [Buy $48 USD/year\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_SWcloudapps?licencingScheme=YSC)

- [Buy $15 USD/month\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_SWcloudapps?licencingScheme=MSC)

#### Need a detailed comparison between these packages?

3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for MakersSOLIDWORKS xDesign for MakersParts &amp; Assemblies 

Drawings 

Freeform Designs 

Sheetmetal 

Structural &amp; Framing 

Mold Design 

Motion Studies 

CAM (NC Programming) 

Rendering 

Interactive 3D Presentations 

No Installation RequiredPC Installation

Learning Content 

Online Communities 

Start making today with SOLIDWORKS for Makers

## Learn More About SOLIDWORKS for Makers

### Explore SOLIDWORKS for Makers: Woodworking, CNC, DIY, and 3D Printing

### 3D Printing

Design smarter for 3D printing with SOLIDWORKS for Makers – full-functionality 3D CAD for personal use. Create precise models, export STL or OBJ files, and fine-tune your designs before hitting print. Build complex shapes, test prototypes, and get clear visuals of your work along the way. Whether you're printing functional parts or detailed models, SOLIDWORKS for Makers helps you move fast and reduce waste, all with tools designed for home use.

- [Learn more](/solution/solidworks-makers/3d-cad-printing-software)

### DIY Projects

Plan and adjust your DIY projects with SOLIDWORKS for Makers – full-functionality 3D CAD for personal use. From home repairs to custom designs, you can draw accurately, test ideas, and make changes without having to start over. Preview materials, adjust dimensions, and prepare files for tools such as 3D printers, CNC machines, and laser cutters. With SOLIDWORKS for Makers, you can keep your projects organized and precise, allowing them to reach their full potential.

- [Learn more](/solution/solidworks-makers/diy-personal-cad)

### Woodworking

Sketch, plan, and build woodworking projects with more precision using SOLIDWORKS for Makers – full-functionality 3D CAD for personal use. Lay out exact dimensions, adjust parts as you go, and export files for CNC or laser cutting. Get detailed cut lists and material lists without doing the math by hand. Whether you're making chairs, cabinets, or small laser-cut boxes, SOLIDWORKS for Makers helps you identify problems early and keep your projects moving forward.

- [Learn more](/solution/solidworks-makers/cad-woodworking-software)

### CNC Machining

If you're running a CNC machine at home, SOLIDWORKS for Makers – full-functionality 3D CAD for personal use gives you the tools to design parts with confidence. Model your ideas accurately, generate cut lists, and prep files for your machine, whether you're working with metal, wood, or plastic. SOLIDWORKS for Makers helps you move faster from concept to cut while giving you the control and precision you expect.

- [Learn more](/solution/solidworks-makers/diy-cnc-machine-software-hobbyists)

### Learn More – **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers

### Learn More – SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers

### Your Makers Community

Your community for all things making - connect with fellow makers, share your work, learn tips and tricks, and get inspired.

- [Join the community](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/#community:17)

## ### SOLIDWORKS for Makers | FAQs

####  How much does SOLIDWORKS for Makers cost?

---

**SOLIDWORKS for Makers** costs only $48 USD/per year (or $15 USD/per month), excluding taxes. It’s an affordable way to access the same professional 3D CAD trusted by engineers, now priced for personal, non-commercial use. Whether you’re designing a 3D print, fixing something at home, or working on a hobby project, your subscription gives you full access to pro-grade tools at a maker-friendly price. Subscriptions renew automatically unless you cancel them in your

- [My Account](https://go.3ds.com/account) portal. See details in the

- [Makers FAQs](https://www.3ds.com/store/faq/makers).

####  Is SOLIDWORKS for Makers available worldwide?

---

SOLIDWORKS for Makers is currently available with a billing address in:

- Americas: Canada, United States
- Europe: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom
- Asia-Pacific: Australia, India, Japan
- Africa/Middle East: Algeria, Morocco

More countries will be added soon.

####  What do I get with my subscription?

---

You can choose between two **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** packages:

- **SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers** – a browser-based 3D CAD app that works on Mac, tablets, Chromebooks, and Windows. It includes an AI design assistant, rendering tools, motion studies, and easy sharing for quick hobby or repair projects.
- **3D**EXPERIENCE **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** – full **SOLIDWORKS** desktop CAD for Windows, with both local and **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform storage, CAM features, and photorealistic rendering. You can install it and work offline for up to 30 days before syncing your data online.

Each subscription is sold separately, allowing you to purchase one or both, depending on your specific project needs. Access your tools anytime through

- [Start Making](https://www.solidworks.com/maker-cloud), using the same email address you used to subscribe, to ensure your platform links are set up correctly.

####  How do I know which offer is best for me?

---

If you want the same **SOLIDWORKS** Connected desktop experience trusted by engineers, choose **3D**EXPERIENCE **SOLIDWORKS for Makers**—it’s ideal for detailed hobby builds and precision work on Windows.

If you prefer to design in your browser on a Mac, Chromebook, or tablet, go with **SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers**. It gives you flexibility to create anywhere, with **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform access and built-in collaboration tools. Unlike **3D**EXPERIENCE **SOLIDWORKS for Makers**, **SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers** does not include **SOLIDWORKS** Connected.

Both connect to the **3D**EXPERIENCE platform for easy sharing, version tracking, and secure personal use of 3D CAD storage.

####  Is SOLIDWORKS for Makers good for beginners?

---

Yes. Both **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** packages are designed to be easy to learn and accessible for new users. You’ll find all the help you need within your platform’s

- [Resources section](https://www.solidworks.com/maker-cloud), which brings together step-by-step tutorials, the

- [Getting Started](https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-makers/getting-started) video playlist to learn at your own pace, and the *Welcome App* with tours, videos, tips, and training to help you make the most of your tools.

You can also join the Makers

- [Made in 3D](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/#community:17) community to connect with others, share ideas, and find inspiration for your next DIY project.

####  Can I use SOLIDWORKS for Makers to design for 3D printing?

---

Yes. Both **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** packages make it easy to design parts for 3D printing, from simple repairs to detailed hobby builds. You can export your models as STL files and prepare them with any slicer software for printing.

Many Makers also combine 3D printing with woodworking, metalwork, or small gadget design, using **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** to bring digital precision to hands-on projects at home.

####  Are my SOLIDWORKS for Makers files, formats, or data restricted at all?

---

Files created with your **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** account are digitally watermarked and can only be opened using a **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** license. They cannot be opened with commercial or academic versions of **SOLIDWORKS**. This watermark applies to native formats such as .3dxml, .sldprt, .sldasm, and .slddrw.

You can work with a wide range of popular CAD formats, including STL, STEP, DXF, and DWG. To collaborate or share your designs more broadly, export them in neutral formats like STEP (.stp) or IGES (.iges) for 3D printing or hobby projects.

####  What are the usage restrictions for SOLIDWORKS for Makers?

---

**SOLIDWORKS for Makers** is intended for personal, non-commercial projects. You can design and even sell parts you create, as long as you generate less than $2,000 USD/per year in revenue.

For broader or professional use, you’ll need a **SOLIDWORKS** [commercial](https://www.solidworks.com/how-to-buy/solidworks-solutions) or

- [startup license](https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-for-startups-program). There is no direct upgrade path from a **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** license to a commercial one—if you decide to expand your work, you’ll need to purchase both separately.

####  Can I use SOLIDWORKS for Makers on a Mac or offline?

---

**SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers** runs entirely in your web browser, making it compatible with Mac, tablets, Chromebooks, and Windows. You’ll need an internet connection to access your projects and save your work to the **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform.

**3D**EXPERIENCE **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** runs on Windows and can work offline for up to 30 days before syncing online. This flexibility allows you to design at any time, even without an internet connection, and seamlessly update your files once you reconnect.

####  Where can I find support and community help?

---

- For inquiries about your purchase, managing your subscription, or accessing your **3D**EXPERIENCE platform, please submit an

- [Online Support Form](https://www.3ds.com/online-store/support-form/).
- For setup and usage questions, visit the Makers

- [Support Center](https://www.3ds.com/store/support-center/makers) for guides, troubleshooting, and tutorials.
- If you have a specific question or need technical advice, join the

- [Maker | Support](https://go.3ds.com/makerssupport) community.
- To share projects and connect with other Makers, become part of the

- [Made in 3D](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/#community:17) community, where you can discover creative builds, get inspired by others, and collaborate on personal projects.

####  Is there a storage limit in SOLIDWORKS for Makers?

---

**SOLIDWORKS for Makers** includes 25 GB of **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform storage through 3DDrive and 3DSpace, providing ample capacity for your designs. Features such as file versioning, history tracking, and recovery help keep your personal workspace organized. This is usually more than enough for personal and hobby projects.

Currently, storage cannot be expanded, and the 25 GB limit applies only to **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** licenses.

####  Can I cancel if I change my mind?

---

Yes. For yearly subscriptions, **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** offers a 15-day money-back policy. If you request cancellation within 15 days of your purchase, your order will be refunded in full. Refund requests are not possible with monthly subscriptions, though you can cancel prior to your next monthly renewal. If you are eligible for a refund &amp; cancellation, you can cancel your order directly in your

- [Account](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/my-account/orders).

# SOLIDWORKS for Makers

3D Modeling and Cloud-Based Design Tools for Personal Use

![Makers_Figurine_SOLIDWORKS](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/webp/public/migration/2024-08/adobestock_643799814_figurines_banner_1920x540.jpg.webp)