How to Create Text in SolidWorks?

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Text in SolidWorks

Selecting a Face of the Part

To start adding text in SolidWorks, select a face on the part where you want the text to be positioned. This selection is crucial as it determines the surface onto which the text will be applied. You can use either the Sketch toolbar or navigate through the menu by choosing Tools > Sketch Entities > Text.

Drawing the Profile for Text Placement

Before inserting text, you need to create a profile that will serve as the outline for your text. This can be done by sketching various shapes such as circles or continuous paths made up of lines, arcs, or splines. Here’s how:

1. Click on the Sketch button (if not already active).
2. Use the line, arc, or spline tools to draw your desired shape.
3. Ensure the profile is closed or continuous, as this will be necessary for the next step.

Adding and Formatting the Text

Once the profile is ready:

1. Close the current sketch and open a new sketch on the selected face.
2. Click on the Text option from the Sketch toolbar or the menu.
3. A dialogue box will appear prompting you to enter your desired text. Type in the text you wish to add.
4. Adjust the font, size, and style according to your preference from the properties dialog.

Extruding the Text

For a three-dimensional appearance:

1. Navigate to the Features tab in the Command Manager.
2. Select the Extruded Boss/Base or Extruded Cut function from the toolbar.
3. Choose the text you’ve inputted, and specify the extrude depth in the properties manager.
4. Click OK to commit the operation. The text will now appear as a raised or recessed feature on your part.

Editing and Dissolving Text

If you need to make adjustments to the text later:

1. Right-click on the text entity and select Edit Text to modify it directly.
2. If you want to convert the text into individual sketch entities, right-click on the text and choose Dissolve Sketch Text. This allows for further customization but will render the text non-editable for textual changes.

Changing Text Color and Dimensions

To improve the visual appearance of the text:

1. To change the color of the text, go to the Options menu and select Colors. Adjust the system colors accordingly.
2. If you want to modify the dimensions related to your text, double-click the dimension you wish to change. A Modify dialog box will open, allowing you to alter the values as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I create text with subscripts or superscripts in SolidWorks?
To include subscripts or superscripts, select the dimension you want to edit. Within the Dimension Text box, highlight the character you wish to transform, then press Ctrl + = for subscript or Ctrl + Shift + = for superscript.

Can I extrude text that consists of numbers?
Yes, you can extrude numerical text in SolidWorks. After adding the numbers as text using the method described earlier, you can follow the same extrusion process to create a 3D effect.

What should I do if my dimensions appear grey in SolidWorks?
Dimensions may appear grey when they are driven dimensions, meaning they are dependent on other geometry. Ensure that the dimensioning options are set correctly, and check if the display settings affect visibility. You can also toggle off the driven dimension mode if necessary.