How to Extrude in SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide

To extrude in SolidWorks, first create a 2D sketch on a plane, then select Features > Extruded Boss/Base to add depth and create a 3D shape. Adjust the extrusion depth and direction in the dialog box, then click OK to complete the extrusion.

Syntax

The basic steps to extrude in SolidWorks are:

• Create Sketch: Draw a 2D shape on a plane.
• Select Extrude: Go to Features > Extruded Boss/Base.
• Set Parameters: Define the extrusion depth and direction.
• Confirm: Click OK to create the 3D feature.

This process converts your flat sketch into a solid 3D object.

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1. Open SolidWorks and create a new part.
2. Select a plane (e.g., Front Plane).
3. Click Sketch and draw a 2D shape (e.g., rectangle).
4. Exit the sketch.
5. Click Features tab > Extruded Boss/Base.
6. Enter extrusion depth (e.g., 50 mm).
7. Click OK to finish.

Example

This example shows how to extrude a simple rectangle 50 mm thick to create a block.

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1. Start SolidWorks and create a new part.
2. Select the Top Plane and click Sketch.
3. Use the Rectangle tool to draw a 100 mm by 50 mm rectangle.
4. Exit the sketch mode.
5. Click on Features tab, then select Extruded Boss/Base.
6. In the PropertyManager, set the Depth to 50 mm.
7. Click OK to create the 3D block.

Output

A 3D rectangular block 100 mm wide, 50 mm deep, and 50 mm tall appears in the workspace.

Common Pitfalls

• No Sketch Selected: Extrude requires an active 2D sketch; forgetting to create or select one causes errors.
• Closed Sketch: The sketch must be fully closed; open profiles cannot be extruded properly.
• Incorrect Plane: Sketching on the wrong plane can lead to unexpected extrusion directions.
• Depth Zero: Setting extrusion depth to zero results in no feature created.

Always check your sketch is closed and on the correct plane before extruding.

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/* Wrong way: Trying to extrude without a sketch */
Features > Extruded Boss/Base (no sketch selected) // Error: No sketch found

/* Right way: Create and select sketch first */
Sketch on Front Plane > Draw closed shape > Exit Sketch > Features > Extruded Boss/Base > Set depth > OK

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Tip
1	Create 2D Sketch	Use closed shapes for extrusion
2	Select Extruded Boss/Base	Found under Features tab
3	Set Depth	Enter positive value for thickness
4	Choose Direction	Default is normal to sketch plane
5	Confirm	Click OK to create 3D feature

Key Takeaways

Always start with a closed 2D sketch on the correct plane before extruding.

Use the Extruded Boss/Base feature to add depth and create 3D shapes.

Set a positive extrusion depth to see the 3D result.

Check your sketch and extrusion direction to avoid errors.

Confirm the extrusion by clicking OK to finalize the 3D feature.