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What Is CAD for Woodworking?

CAD, which stands for computer-aided design, is a valuable tool for woodworkers that helps you envision, design, and build everything from chairs to cabinets to small, laser-cut boxes. You can make sketches, lay out dimensions, create 3D prototypes, export data for laser cutting and CNC milling, and quickly get cut lists and bills of materials for your projects. In short: CAD software can make your woodworking projects easier and more enjoyable.

Why Is CAD Software Good for Woodworking?

Woodworking CAD software like SOLIDWORKS® for Makers gives you all the benefits of a professional CAD software, including:

SOLIDWORKS for Makers accuracy icon

Accuracy

CAD programs for woodworking help ensure your dimensions, materials, and proportions are accurate. When you make a change to one element, the design’s related elements automatically adjust. 

SOLIDWORKS for Makers portability icon

Portability

The best CAD software for woodworking is cloud-enabled, so you can access your designs from anywhere, on any device. Goodbye laptop, hello tablet or smartphone. 

 

SOLIDWORKS for Makers community icon

Community

Part of the fun of woodworking is sharing your work with others. With SOLIDWORKS for Makers, you can join our large, active community of users, experts, and hobbyists.

 

Pick the Makers package that's right for you:

SOLIDWORKS Cloud Apps for Makers

 

Next-generation of browser-based 3D CAD Apps

 

Features include:

  • Cloud 3D CAD: Browser-based
  • Cloud Storage
  • Simulation: Motion Studies
  • Access to Learning Content and Maker Communities

 

Devices Supported:

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

3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers

 

Proven and powerful SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD

 

Features include:

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

Devices Supported:

  • Windows PC 
  • Installation required

Need a detailed comparison between these packages?

 

  SOLIDWORKS Cloud Apps for Makers 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers
Parts & Assemblies
 
 
Drawings
 
 
Freeform Designs
 
 
Sheetmetal
 
 
Structural & Framing
 
 
Mold Design
 
 
Motion Studies
 
 
CAM (NC Programming)
 
 
Rendering
 
 
No Installation Required
 
PC Installation
Learning Content
 
 
Online Communities
 
 

 

 

Best SOLIDWORKS Features for Woodworkers

SOLIDWORKS for Makers library

Library Features

Quickly model a variety of woodworking joints like dove tails, mortise and tenon, and pocket screws.

 

SOLIDWORKS for Makers toolbox

Toolbox

Standard hardware like nuts, bolts, screws, washers, and gears that automatically size to your design.

 

SOLIDWORKS for Makers parts list

Automatic Cut & Parts Lists

Know how much material you need and how to cut to size, and export a parts list to make shopping easy.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers 3DSKetch

3DSketch

Take down ideas anywhere, anytime with 3D napkin sketching that you can then visualize more fully.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers 3DWhiteboard

3DWhiteboard

Collect inspiration, sketches, notes, and mood boards with this ideation and collaboration tool.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers export

DXF Export

Quickly export DXF files for profiles used in CNC machining, laser cutting, and paper pattern cutting.

 

Connect with Your Maker Community

3ds Maker Community Woodworking

Like sharing your projects to get advice – or compliments? Want to connect with thousands of like-minded makers and hobbyists, all around the world? Ready to learn new things and take your maker game to the next level? A community of makers like you is the perfect place to start.

Find Woodworking Inspiration

Learn More – SOLIDWORKS Cloud Apps for Makers

Learn More – 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers

Woodworking CAD Software | FAQs




SOLIDWORKS for Makers | FAQs