What are the best practices for using SolidWorks to create technical drawings?

2 Use model views and projections

One of the advantages of using SolidWorks is that you can easily create 2D drawings from your 3D models. To do this, you need to use model views and projections. Model views are the 3D views of your model that you can insert into your drawing sheet. Projections are the 2D views that are derived from the model views, such as front, top, right, isometric, or section views. You can use the View Palette or the Insert Drawing View command to add model views and projections to your drawing. You can also adjust the orientation, scale, alignment, and display style of your views.

3 Add dimensions and annotations

Dimensions and annotations are essential elements of any technical drawing, as they provide the information and instructions for manufacturing, assembling, or inspecting your design. SolidWorks allows you to add various types of dimensions and annotations to your drawing, such as linear, angular, radial, diameter, ordinate, geometric tolerance, datum, note, balloon, or weld symbol. You can use the Smart Dimension tool or the Annotation toolbar to add dimensions and annotations to your drawing. You can also use the Dimension Palette or the Property Manager to edit and format your dimensions and annotations.

4 Use layers and blocks

Layers and blocks are useful features that can help you organize and manage your drawing elements. Layers are categories that you can assign to your drawing elements, such as dimensions, annotations, sketches, or hatches. You can use layers to control the visibility, color, line style, or line weight of your drawing elements. You can use the Layer toolbar or the Layer Properties dialog box to create and modify layers. Blocks are groups of drawing elements that you can save and reuse in your drawing or other drawings. You can use blocks to simplify your drawing or create standard components. You can use the Make Block or the Insert Block commands to create and insert blocks.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?