SOLIDWORKS Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. SOLIDWORKS for Makers enables you to visualize the direction of wood grain and experiment with joinery details, such as mortise and tenon, dados, rabbets, or dowel joints. You can test how each connection fits, refine clearances, and ensure a smooth build before you start cutting.

Yes. You can export DXF or DWG files directly from your CAD models for CNC machining or laser cutting. This ensures precise alignment, smooth tool paths, and accurate results for wood, metal, or acrylic parts.

You can use the geometry and interference analysis tools in SOLIDWORKS for Makers to detect overlapping edges, weak areas, or missing clearances. These checks help prevent tool crashes, reduce waste, and guarantee that your parts fit and align perfectly when assembled.

Many makers mix CNC machining for structural parts with 3D printing for fixtures or decorative elements. SOLIDWORKS for Makers enables you to design and assemble in one environment, aligning parts digitally to ensure a proper fit across various materials and manufacturing methods.

You can apply realistic materials, finishes, and lighting in SOLIDWORKS for Makers to showcase how your furniture will look before you produce it. These renderings are great for planning, visualization, or sharing your work online.

You can import reference images or 3D scans directly into your workspace using the Sketch Picture tool. By including a ruler or known dimension in the photo, you can accurately scale your model. This makes it easy to recreate parts such as dash panels, brackets, or body sections without manual re-measuring.

Makers use DIY CNC software to cut panels, engrave designs, mill parts, and prototype components for furniture, art, and mechanical builds. With SOLIDWORKS for Makers, you can model assemblies, generate 2D drawings, and export DXF or DWG files for use with routers, mills, or laser cutters.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers makes it easy to design jigs, templates, and fixtures that can be 3D printed to match your wood parts. You can check the fit and tolerances in your 3D CAD model, then export parts for printing to create cutting, drilling, and assembly guidance that is more accurate and repeatable.

Use the mesh and geometry analysis tools in SOLIDWORKS for Makers to detect thin walls, unsupported overhangs, and weak spots before printing. These checks help ensure your design is strong, printable, and ready for your slicer software.

Use motion studies to simulate propeller rotation and verify that your blades clear the frame and surrounding components. You can also test multiple configurations digitally before committing to physical parts.

Start by refining your CAD model—use fillets, smooth transitions, and mesh repair before exporting. Print at a finer layer height (0.1–0.15 mm) and sand or prime the finished part for a polished look. SOLIDWORKS for Makers helps visualize surface quality and ensure a clean final print.

If you want the same SOLIDWORKS Connected desktop experience trusted by engineers, choose 3DEXPERIENCE 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 3DEXPERIENCE cloud platform access and built-in collaboration tools. Unlike 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers, SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers does not include SOLIDWORKS Connected.

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

Use tolerances, clearances, and fit checks in SOLIDWORKS for Makers to confirm that parts align and connect properly before printing. You can test assemblies digitally to see how each piece fits and moves, helping you avoid reprints and wasted materials.

You can turn any sketch into a 3D CAD model. From there, SOLIDWORKS for Makers generates detailed woodworking plans, with part drawings, cut lists, and views that guide every step of your build, from layout to completion.

Use the surface and freeform tools in SOLIDWORKS for Makers to create smooth, curved, and natural surfaces. You can blend features, refine contours, and combine geometric and sculpted details to achieve realistic figurine poses and expressions.