2D to 3D Conversion Overview

You can convert 2D sketches into 3D models.

The 2D sketch can be an imported drawing, or it can be a sketch constructed in SOLIDWORKS. In either case, it must be a single sketch in a part document.

Even though the sketch can be an imported drawing, it must be imported into a sketch in a part document. You can copy and paste the drawing from a drawing document, or you can import the drawing directly into a 2D sketch in a part document.

The conversion procedure is generally as follows:

  1. In a part document, import a drawing into a sketch or construct a new sketch.
  2. Edit the sketch.
  3. Extract sketches for views from the Front, Top, and so on. The sketches fold up into the appropriate orientation.
  4. Align the sketches.
  5. Extrude the base feature.
  6. Cut or extrude other features.

The tools for the conversion process are on the 2D to 3D Toolbar.