2.2 CAD Basics
2.2 CAD Basics
Learning How To CAD
The videos below will guide you step by step on how to use Onshape, our favorite CAD software. Follow along to learn the basics. It is recommended to watch the video and replicate the design shown in it when first learning. Don’t worry if you need to pause or rewind—that's all part of the process!
Be patient with yourself, CAD takes practice, and it’s totally normal to make mistakes as you go. Just keep trying!
Learn how to create a project, sketch, shape, and extrude
Learn how to create different types of slots, dimensioning, and changing units from mm to inches
Learn the difference between editing sketches vs editing features
Learn keyboard shortcut keys
Learn the difference between assemblies and part studios, and how to keep organized
Learn how to prepare your CAD for slicing
If you’re feeling confident with the basics and want to level up your CAD skills, this section is for you! Here, you’ll find optional resources that cover more advanced tools, techniques, and real-world design projects.
These aren’t required, but they’re a great way to challenge yourself, explore what’s possible in Onshape, and build skills that go beyond the basics. Whether you watch one video or dive into them all, every bit you learn adds to your CAD abilities!
In this video, you will learn how to design a phone stand using real-world measurements and calipers.
In this video, more advanced CAD terms and tools
However, don't be scared; it is a great opportunity to understand how real-world objects are turned into precise 3D models.
Feel free to follow along and try replicating it on your own; even if you don't catch everything, learning some of these tools can help you make more advanced CAD designs.
Have you wondered how pieces are designed to snap together?
In this video, you will learn the basic understanding of how to use CAD tolerances (the allowable variation in a dimension), which allows pieces to "snap and click" together.
Learn more about tolerances through CADing a portable soap dish
After learning about CAD, it’s time for a quick note: not every 3D print has to start with your own design. Platforms like Thingiverse and Printables offer thousands of free, pre-made models you can download as STL files, slice, and print.
CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
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