# 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers Get started on your making journey ![SOLIDWORKS xDesign Makers in laptop screen at home](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/webp/public/2026-05/SOLIDWORKS-Makers-xDesign-Getting-Started-Banner.jpg.webp) ### Welcome to **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers [![3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers Introduction Video](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/bg_large/public/2026-05/SOLIDWORKS-3DExperience-Makers-Episode-00-Introduction-cover.jpg.webp)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xL09rpY_oKU) **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS® for Makers helps you level-up your maker game, giving you all the tools and resources you need to create amazing things. To begin your maker journey, check out our Getting Started Video and then discover the - [**3D**EXPERIENCE Platform.](https://www.solidworks.com/maker-cloud) ### Your First Login and SOLIDWORKS for Makers Install [![Episode 01: First Login and Install of 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/bg_large/public/2026-05/SOLIDWORKS-3DExperience-Makers-Episode-01-First-Login-cover.jpg.webp)](https://youtu.be/B0Tw-vdHA4k?si=7zeuFaZ16p4Q7oNZ) Watch the video for an overview of your first login and SOLIDWORKS install experience, including: - Your Platform ID - Your Platform Dashboard - Installing SOLIDWORKS - The **3D**EXPERIENCE Launcher - Opening SOLIDWORKS Head over to the - [**3D**EXPERIENCE Platform](https://www.solidworks.com/maker-cloud)to get started with your new SOLIDWORKS for Makers license. ### Account Management #### Account - [My Account Portal](https://go.3ds.com/account) #### Support - [Makers Support Center](https://www.3ds.com/store/support-center/makers) #### Community - [Makers Support Community](https://go.3ds.com/makerssupport) #### Showcase - [Made in 3D](https://go.3ds.com/madein3d) ### Using **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers ### Dive into **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS [![Episode 02: Introduction to SOLIDWORKS](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/bg_large/public/2026-05/SOLIDWORKS-3DExperience-Makers-Episode-02-Intro-cover.jpg.webp)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JPUus085wiU) This video will cover the basics you need to turn your ideas into amazing creations. Here’s what we’ll cover: - Starting a new SOLIDWORKS document - Templates - Navigating the user interface - Starting a new sketch - Dimensioning - Extruding - Features - Saving files to the cloud - Bookmarks - Assemblies ### The **3D**EXPERIENCE Platform ### Explore the **3D**EXPERIENCE Platform [![Episode 03: Get Comfortable with the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/bg_large/public/2026-05/SOLIDWORKS-3DExperience-Makers-Episode-03-Get-Comfortable-cover.jpg.webp)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVauRRH5Wl4) Take a tour of the **3D**EXPERIENCE Platform and all the capabilities it offers to makers. Whether you’re creating from a computer or a mobile device, you’ll discover how to effortlessly access your projects, ensuring a smoother and hassle-free design experience. This video covers: - Customizing your dashboard - The Learning Center - Communities - The Compass - Applications on the platform - Bookmarks - Saving to the platform ### Starting a Project with xShape and SOLIDWORKS [![Episode 04: Starting a Project in xShape](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/bg_large/public/2026-05/SOLIDWORKS-3DExperience-Makers-Episode-04-Start-Project-xShape-cover.jpg.webp)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX1tiIth_nA) Discover the power of browser-based subdivision modeling with xShape. Follow along with this in-depth tutorial as our expert guide shapes a detailed fishing lure using xShape and SOLIDWORKS. Explore how xShape's freeform capabilities seamlessly integrate with SOLIDWORKS to transform intricate designs into reality. ### Makers Learning Hub ### New to 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers? Follow the guided learning path to set up your workspace, build your first part and work through core features at your own pace. ![MySolidWorks Online Training Resources](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/webp/public/migration/2024-07/banner-mysolidworks-for-students-001.jpg.webp) - [Makers Learning Path](/maker-learning) ### Frequently Asked Questions **|** **|** **|** **|** **|** **Getting Access** #### I haven't received my Get Started email. What should I do? --- First, check your spam or junk folder. If you still don't see it, you can access your account through the Get Started page using the email address you used at checkout. If you are still unable to log in, contact support by submitting a Support Form. #### I get an access denied error when logging in. What should I do? --- Make sure you are using the same email address you used to purchase your subscription. Try clearing your browser cache or opening the platform in an incognito window. If your subscription is more than 30 days old, it may have lapsed. You can renew from the Makers store or submit a Support Form for help. #### How do I access my Makers platform? --- You can always access your tools here: [Makers Dashboard](https://www.solidworks.com/maker-cloud). Bookmark this link for easy access. #### How do I change the email address on my Makers account? --- Your email address can't be changed for the first 30 days after purchase. After that, log in to your 3DEXPERIENCE ID profile, edit your email, and click Update. Until the 30-day period ends, use your original email to access the platform. #### How do I reset my password? --- Go to the password reset page and follow the steps to create a new password for your account. #### Is SOLIDWORKS for Makers available in my country? --- SOLIDWORKS for Makers is currently available in: Algeria, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and United States. See the Makers FAQ for the latest availability information. **Setting Up Your Software** #### What are the system requirements for 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers? --- **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers requires Windows 11. To confirm your system is compatible, use the Cloud Eligibility Tool, or check the list of Certified Hardware Requirements. #### Do I have to download or install anything? --- Yes, depending on what you plan to use: **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS (desktop apps) require installation: - SOLIDWORKS Connected - NC Shop Floor Programmer SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers (browser-based apps) do not require installation. Note: SOLIDWORKS Connected cannot be installed on the same computer as a commercial SOLIDWORKS installation with the same release year. #### How do I install 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers? --- After purchase, open your Get Started email. Use the link in that email, or go to the Makers Dashboard to begin the install. You can also find step-by-step guidance in the Learning Hub: First Login and Install video. #### How do I perform a clean reinstallation? --- Visit the Maker | Support community and follow the clean reinstallation guide. This covers clean installs after a previous desktop license and reinstalls if a hotfix update fails. #### What should I do if I see an error when installing or running the 3DEXPERIENCE Launcher? --- Post a screenshot of the error in the - [Maker | Support community](https://go.3ds.com/makerssupport?3dssid=116632cb-3d55-4909-8cb5-994b80b875bb&3dsvid=551d21e0-4d49-4e81-87c2-8370cd057be9&_gl=1*1jk0drs*_ga*NzIyMjQ4NDUxLjE3NjY1OTUzMDg.*_ga_0KHYZZE0RG*czE3Nzk4Mzc5MjIkbzI4JGcxJHQxNzc5ODQwNTE0JGo1NyRsMCRoMA..*_gcl_au*MTg0Mjk2NDY4My4xNzc0NTQ0MTg2#_ga=2.43099109.1763774922.1715558422-1346100504.1705318008). Other makers and the support team can review it and suggest next steps. **What's Included** #### What does 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers include? --- **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers includes desktop CAD software: SOLIDWORKS Connected, CAM tools: 2.5 and 3-Axis CAM with NC Shop Floor Programmer, 3D modeling tools: subdivision modeling via 3D Sculptor (xShape), and browser-based CAD with 3D Creator. Collaboration tools (3DSwymer, Collaborative Industry Innovator) and 25 GB of **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud storage are included with your subscription. #### What does SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers include? --- SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers runs in your browser and includes 3D Creator, 3D Sculptor, 3D SheetMetal Creator, 3D Structure Creator, 3D Mold Creator, 3D Motion Creator and Manufacturing Definition Creator. You also get 3DSwymer, Collaborative Industry Innovator, Product Communicator and cloud render credits. An internet connection is always required. This subscription does not include desktop SOLIDWORKS or CAM tools. #### What file formats does 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers support? --- **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers has the same core CAD functionality with the addition of the **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform for file storage, sharing, and version control. It is not compatible with commercial SOLIDWORKS licenses or third-party Add-Ins. Files are watermarked and can only be opened with a SOLIDWORKS for Makers license. #### How is 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS different from desktop SOLIDWORKS? --- **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers has the same core CAD functionality with the addition of the **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform for file storage, sharing, and version control. It is not compatible with commercial SOLIDWORKS licenses or third-party Add-Ins. Files are watermarked and can only be opened with a SOLIDWORKS for Makers license. **Using the Platform** #### Can I use 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers offline? --- **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers supports offline mode for up to 30 consecutive days. Before going offline, make sure you have local copies of your files and a desktop shortcut for SOLIDWORKS Connected. SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers always requires an internet connection and does not support offline use. #### Are my SOLIDWORKS for Makers files, formats, or data restricted? --- Yes. Files 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 applies to native formats: .3dxml, .sldprt, .sldasm and .slddrw. You can export in neutral formats like .stl, .step or .iges to share or use your designs without restrictions. #### How do I find my files on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform? --- Use the Search bar at the top of the **3D**EXPERIENCE platform to find files by name. For recently created files, click the clock icon or 'Show my recent content.' In SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers, use the Open dialog to search for files saved to the platform. For a full guide to all search methods, visit the Maker | Support community. #### How do I save files to my local computer? --- In SOLIDWORKS Connected, the default Save writes to the **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud. To save locally, choose 'Save to my PC' from within SOLIDWORKS Connected, or edit your keyboard shortcut to set Ctrl+S to save locally. In offline mode, all files save to your local computer automatically. #### How do I continue working during a platform update? --- SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers requires an internet connection and may not be available during platform updates. Check the Maker | Support community for scheduled update announcements so you can plan your work around them. #### How do I get CAM functionality in 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers? --- CAM tools for CNC machining are available through the NC Shop Floor Programmer role, included in your **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers subscription. To install it, log in to your Makers platform, click the Compass, and select Shop Floor Machining. Your computer needs Windows 10 or 11, an active internet connection and at least 13 GB of free disk space. Run the Cloud Eligibility Checker first to confirm compatibility. **Managing Your Subscription** #### How can I get help with my subscription? --- For purchase, subscription or access issues, [submit a Support Form](https://www.3ds.com/online-store/support-form/). #### How do I update my payment method? --- Log in to your My Account Portal, go to the Payment Methods tab. If you need help, submit a - [Support Form](https://www.3ds.com/online-store/support-form). #### How do I upgrade my subscription from monthly to yearly? --- Stop your current monthly subscription in the Subscriptions tab of your My Account Portal, then wait until the renewal date. On that date, purchase the yearly plan from the Makers store using the same email address to keep your existing files. Do not start the new plan before the current one ends or both subscriptions will overlap. For help, submit a - [ Support Form](https://www.3ds.com/online-store/support-form). #### Can I cancel my subscription and receive a refund? --- You can request a full refund within 15 days of purchase for a yearly subscription. This policy does not apply to renewals, monthly subscriptions or trial offers. If you are eligible, manage your cancellation in your - [My Account Portal](https://go.3ds.com/account) or - [submit a Support Form](https://www.3ds.com/online-store/support-form/) for assistance. **Help & Community** #### Where can I find setup and usage guides? --- For setup and usage guides, visit the - [Support Center](https://www.3ds.com/store/support-center/makers). #### How can I get help from other makers? --- For technical setup and usage questions, join the - [**Maker | Support** community](https://go.3ds.com/makerssupport). #### How can I share my work and connect with other makers? --- Visit the - [**Made in 3D** community](https://go.3ds.com/madein3d) to share your builds, get feedback and find inspiration. 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