What is SOLIDWORKS?

SOLIDWORKS is a solid modeling computer-aided design (CAD) software program for designing and engineering 3D objects. It is an excellent program that simulates the behavior of different materials and allows for incredibly accurate 3D models to be created. It integrates product data management, design validation and communication, and CAD productivity tools. Modern metal fabrication and laser cutting industries, such as Sattler Manufacturing, rely on SOLIDWORKS to create their projects and designs.

Why should I learn SOLIDWORKS?

SOLIDWORKS is widely regarded as the industry standard CAD software in the metal fabrication world, so having an intimate knowledge of how it works and how to use it is essential when you are designing projects for metal fabrication. SOLIDWORKS is easy to use; modifying designs is simple, designs can be mathematically tested for strength, and the files sync up easily with CNC machines in metal fabrication shops. Whether your goal is to create just one simple project or gain a valuable new skill for your career, having a solid knowledge of the SOLIDWORKS system will definitely benefit you.

Where can I learn SOLIDWORKS?

There are many places online that provide excellent SOLIDWORKS training, whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced learner. We’ve compiled an updated list of a few of the best places you can start learning about the SOLIDWORKS system today!

1. YouTube

YouTube has many tutorials on SOLIDWORKS, as well as entire channels dedicated to learning it. The upside is that it’s totally free, but the downside is that the material may not be organized in the best way or it could be hard to understand, depending on the tutorials you choose. It is, however, a great place to search if you are looking for a solution to a specific problem.

2. Udemy

Udemy is an online courses platform that provides many SOLIDWORKS courses, including some certification courses. A membership to the site is free, and you pay a reasonable amount (about $13 on average) for a decent quality course. You can also read reviews on each course to see if it will be a good fit for your needs.

3. Lynda.com/LinkedIn Learning

Previously known as Lynda.com and now owned by LinkedIn, this site has many high quality SOLIDWORKS courses that are organized based on skill level. The courses are free, but to use them the site requires a membership, which is available from $19/month. 

4. Skillshare

Skillshare is another great membership website that is geared towards those in the arts and design industries, and has a selection of SOLIDWORKS design courses. Skillshare provides two membership levels: free and premium. The free level has a few select courses available, and many more are available through the premium membership which is $8.25 a month when billed annually.

5. SOLIDWORKS’ website

Of course, the best place online to learn the solidworks skills you need is from the official website itself. Solidworks.com provides comprehensive training courses on everything you need to know about the SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD system. The tutorials are composed of several videos by professionals teaching you how to use the system in an efficient way.

Why Wait?

Whether you are designing a new invention, an elaborate piece of laser cut metal art, or just a much needed part to a machine, the SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD software is a highly regarded and easy to use program. As you can see, learning how to use the SOLIDWORKS system so you can create the project of your dreams is only a few tutorials away.

How can we help?

Our highly experienced team at Sattler Manufacturing is here to help you with your projects and answer any questions you may have. Call us today for a quote or assistance on your next metal fabrication project!