How to Create Axis in SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide

In SolidWorks, you create an axis by selecting Insert > Reference Geometry > Axis, then choosing the geometry type such as an edge, two points, or a plane to define the axis direction. This creates a construction axis used for modeling or assembly alignment.

Syntax

To create an axis in SolidWorks, use the menu path: Insert > Reference Geometry > Axis. Then select one of these options to define the axis:

• Edge or line: Select a linear edge or sketch line.
• Two points: Select two points to define the axis direction.
• Plane and point: Select a plane and a point not on the plane.
• Two planes: Select two planes; the axis is their intersection line.

This creates a construction axis visible in the feature tree.

arm_architecture

Insert > Reference Geometry > Axis

Select geometry type:
- Edge or line
- Two points
- Plane and point
- Two planes

Confirm to create axis

Example

This example shows how to create an axis using two points in a part:

1. Open your part in SolidWorks.
2. Go to Insert > Reference Geometry > Axis.
3. Choose the Two points option.
4. Select the first point (e.g., a vertex on the model).
5. Select the second point (another vertex or sketch point).
6. Click OK to create the axis.

The new axis appears in the feature tree and can be used for rotations or as a reference.

arm_architecture

1. Insert > Reference Geometry > Axis
2. Select 'Two points'
3. Click first point
4. Click second point
5. Confirm with OK

Output

Axis created between the two selected points and visible in the feature tree.

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when creating an axis in SolidWorks include:

• Trying to create an axis without selecting valid geometry (e.g., selecting a face instead of an edge or points).
• Choosing points that are coincident or too close, which may cause errors.
• Not confirming the selection by clicking OK, so the axis is not created.
• Confusing the axis with a sketch line; the axis is a reference geometry feature.

Always ensure you select the correct geometry type and confirm the creation.

arm_architecture

Wrong way:
Insert > Reference Geometry > Axis
Select face (invalid)
Click OK (error or no axis created)

Right way:
Insert > Reference Geometry > Axis
Select edge or two points
Click OK
Axis created

Quick Reference

Method	Selection Required	Use Case
Edge or Line	Select a linear edge or sketch line	Create axis along existing linear geometry
Two Points	Select two distinct points	Create axis between points not on a line
Plane and Point	Select a plane and a point not on it	Create axis perpendicular to plane through point
Two Planes	Select two planes	Create axis at intersection of planes

Key Takeaways

Use Insert > Reference Geometry > Axis to start creating an axis.

Select appropriate geometry like edges, points, or planes to define the axis direction.

Confirm your selections by clicking OK to create the axis feature.

Avoid selecting invalid geometry types like faces or coincident points.

Created axes appear in the feature tree and help with modeling and assembly tasks.