Create a part

Getting started

The first feature you create for a part or sheet metal model is called the base feature. Several commands are available for creating base features, but one thing they have in common is that they are sketch-based features. You should consider the following questions when starting a new model:

Create a part workflow

Use the following process to create a base feature for your part model.

For an overview of this process, see Part modeling workflow overview and the links at the bottom of this topic.

  1. Create a document using the iso part.par template.

    Tip:

    • If you want to model a machined, cast, molded, or plastic part, you should use a Part document (.par).

    • If you want to model a sheet metal part, you should use a Sheet Metal document (.psm) and the iso sheet metal.psm template.

  2. Sketch the base feature.

    You construct a sketch-based feature by drawing a closed sketch region (A) on a reference plane (B).

    1. Start a sketch by selecting a sketch plane and pressing F3 to lock it.

      Tip:

      The first sketch you draw must be a closed sketch region, and it is typically drawn on one of the three principal planes of the base coordinate system (A).

      To learn about sketching options, see Drawing sketches of parts.

    2. Use the commands in the Draw group to draw the base feature. For example:

  3. Apply sketch element relationships.

    (Optional) If you drew a shape using disjoint elements such as lines, arcs, or curves, you can use the various relationship commands to apply additional geometric relationships to maintain proper alignment when edits are made. For example, you can:

  4. Add dimensions to the sketch.

    Use the Smart Dimension command to add dimensions to the sketch elements.

  5. Extrude the sketch into a 3D shape.

    From the sketch, construct an extruded base feature using the Select tool.

  6. Continue building the part.

    Do any of the following:

  7. Finish the part.
    1. Apply a material to the part.

    2. Save the document.

  8. (Optional) You can continue with any of these workflows:

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