David Foster
David Foster is the SOLIDWORKS mechanical-modeling editor at SolidsWorks. He writes about sketches, features and assembly behavior with drawings and the next design change in view.
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Sheet metal
SOLIDWORKS sheet metal basics: flanges, bends and flattening
A rectangular-base channel workflow, with inherited bend settings, edge-flange measurement choices, the sketched-bend alternative and a complete flat-pattern DXF check.
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Getting started
Choosing a computer for SOLIDWORKS: processor, RAM, graphics and storage
Start with a supported Windows configuration, 32 GB of RAM and an SSD. Compare rebuild, graphics and study results for the work the computer must do.
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Parts and features
How to make threads in SOLIDWORKS, cosmetic or modeled
Cosmetic threads for drawing callouts, modeled geometry for printing and close views. A shaft-and-hole workflow with drawing import and interference checks.
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Parts and features
How to change or assign a material in SOLIDWORKS
Assign the physical material to the intended part, body, component and configuration, then check density, linked BOM properties and any separate Simulation assignment.
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Drawings
How to make a section view in SOLIDWORKS
Drawing and model Section View routes, with cutting-line choices, hatching, assembly exclusions, saved annotation views and a check that the cut follows the feature.
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Getting started
Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA): exam and prep
CSWA Design exam rules, included-attempt routes and preparation through model changes, materials, units and assemblies, with the current online exam-start procedure.
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Getting started
SOLIDWORKS keyboard shortcuts: defaults and custom keys
The useful SOLIDWORKS Design 2026 keys in modeling order, plus selection-filter fixes, the S bar, conflict-aware customization and a printable list from your own installation.
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Licenses, plans and cost
Is SOLIDWORKS free? Student access, trials and limits
Start with the use: learning, evaluating, personal projects, a hardware startup or paid design work. Free access has conditions, and Makers file restrictions can decide the hand-off.
