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

To create a surface in SolidWorks, start by selecting a surface feature like Extruded Surface or Revolved Surface from the Surfaces toolbar. Then, sketch the profile and define the direction or axis to generate the surface. You can also use advanced tools like Boundary Surface for complex shapes.

Syntax

In SolidWorks, creating a surface involves these main steps:

• Sketch: Draw a 2D profile on a plane or face.
• Surface Feature: Choose a surface tool such as Extruded Surface, Revolved Surface, or Boundary Surface.
• Parameters: Define depth, angle, or boundary conditions.
• Confirm: Click OK to generate the surface.

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Extruded Surface: Select Sketch -> Surfaces -> Extruded Surface -> Set Depth -> OK

Revolved Surface: Select Sketch -> Surfaces -> Revolved Surface -> Set Axis and Angle -> OK

Boundary Surface: Select two or more edge curves -> Surfaces -> Boundary Surface -> Set Conditions -> OK

Example

This example shows how to create a simple extruded surface from a circle sketch.

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1. Open a new part in SolidWorks.
2. Select the Front Plane and create a new sketch.
3. Draw a circle with a desired radius.
4. Exit the sketch.
5. Go to Surfaces tab and select <code>Extruded Surface</code>.
6. Set the extrusion depth (e.g., 50 mm).
7. Click OK to create the surface.

Output

A thin, hollow cylindrical surface extending 50 mm from the circle sketch.

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when creating surfaces in SolidWorks include:

• Using solid features instead of surface features by mistake.
• Sketches not fully defined or closed, causing errors in surface creation.
• Incorrect selection of direction or axis for revolved surfaces.
• Trying to create complex surfaces without proper boundary curves.

Always ensure sketches are fully defined and use the Surfaces toolbar, not the Solid Features toolbar.

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Wrong: Using <code>Extruded Boss/Base</code> instead of <code>Extruded Surface</code> for surface creation.

Right: Use <code>Extruded Surface</code> from the Surfaces tab to create a surface without thickness.

Quick Reference

Surface Feature	Use Case	Key Parameters
Extruded Surface	Create flat or curved surfaces by extrusion	Depth, Direction
Revolved Surface	Create surfaces by revolving a profile	Axis, Angle
Boundary Surface	Create complex surfaces between curves	Boundary Curves, Tangency
Lofted Surface	Create surfaces through multiple profiles	Profiles, Guide Curves
Filled Surface	Fill closed boundaries with a surface	Boundary Edges

Key Takeaways

Use the Surfaces toolbar to create surfaces, not solid features.

Start with a fully defined 2D sketch as the base for your surface.

Choose the right surface feature based on the shape you want to create.

Check sketch closure and direction settings to avoid errors.

Use Boundary or Lofted Surfaces for complex shapes requiring multiple curves.