Moving a drawing in SolidWorks is a fundamental skill that every user should master. Whether you want to reposition a sketch, adjust the placement of dimensions, or simply rearrange the components on your sheet, knowing how to move drawings is essential for efficient CAD work. In this tutorial, we will explore different methods to move drawings in SolidWorks using simple yet powerful techniques.
Option 1: Using the Move Entities Tool
One of the easiest ways to move drawings in SolidWorks is by utilizing the Move Entities tool. This tool allows you to precisely relocate sketches and dimensions with just a few clicks.
Step 1: Selecting Entities
To begin, select the entities you wish to move. This can include sketches, dimensions, or any other elements present on your drawing sheet.
Simply click and drag over the desired items while holding down the left mouse button.
Step 2: Activating the Move Entities Tool
Once you have selected the necessary entities, activate the Move Entities tool by clicking on its icon located either in the toolbar or under Tools > Sketch Tools > Modify. Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut “Ctrl+M” for quick access.
Step 3: Moving Entities
With the Move Entities tool active, simply click and drag your selected entities to their new desired location. While dragging, you will notice a preview of your entities following your cursor’s movement.
This helps you visualize their new position before finalizing the move.
Option 2: Using Drag Handles
Another method for moving drawings in SolidWorks involves using drag handles. These handles are small squares or circles that appear when selecting certain elements and enable precise relocation without activating any specific tool.
Step 1: Selecting Entities
Begin by selecting the entities you wish to move.
Similar to the previous method, click and drag over the desired items while holding down the left mouse button.
Step 2: Using Drag Handles
Once you have selected the entities, you will notice drag handles appearing at various points around them. These handles indicate that you can now click and drag them to move your entities.
Simply position your cursor over a handle, click and hold the left mouse button, and then move your entities to their new location.
Option 3: Using the Cut and Paste Method
The cut and paste method is an alternative way to move drawings in SolidWorks. While it might require a few additional steps compared to the previous methods, it provides more flexibility when moving multiple entities simultaneously.
Step 1: Cutting Entities
First, select the entities you want to move by clicking and dragging over them while holding down the left mouse button. Once selected, right-click on any of the selected entities and choose “Cut” from the context menu.
Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut “Ctrl+X”.
Step 2: Pasting Entities
Next, decide where you want to paste your cut entities. Click on a new location on your drawing sheet where you want them to appear.
Right-click again and choose “Paste” from the context menu or use the keyboard shortcut “Ctrl+V”. Your cut entities will now be moved to this new location.
- Tips:
- If precision is crucial, you can use the arrow keys on your keyboard after selecting entities to move them incrementally.
- Remember that you can always undo any movement by pressing “Ctrl+Z” or using the Undo button in the toolbar.
- If you accidentally move an entity and want to revert it back to its original position, use the Redo button or press “Ctrl+Y”.
Moving drawings in SolidWorks is a simple yet powerful skill that allows you to organize and optimize your CAD work. Whether you prefer using the Move Entities tool, drag handles, or the cut and paste method, mastering these techniques will significantly enhance your productivity.
So go ahead, practice these methods, and take full control of your drawings in SolidWorks!