# Solidworks

This guide explains how to export your SolidWorks models for use in Glossi. Since SolidWorks is a CAD tool, exported models won't include PBR materials — but you can use color assignments to define separate material regions that are editable in Glossi Studio.

### Choosing an Export Format

| Scenario                             | Recommended Format |
| ------------------------------------ | ------------------ |
| Multiple materials or colors needed  | STEP               |
| Single material for the entire model | STL                |

### Exporting as STEP (Multiple Materials)

STEP format preserves color information, which Glossi uses to identify different material regions.

1. Open your model in SolidWorks.
2. Go to **File > Save As**.
3. Select **STEP AP214 (\*.step)** from the dropdown.
4. Click **Options** and ensure **"Export colors and materials"** is selected.
5. Click **OK**, name your file, and click **Save**.

### Exporting as STL (Single Material)

Use STL when your entire model will use a single material. STL does not support color or material information.

1. Open your model in SolidWorks.
2. Go to **File > Save As**.
3. Select **STL (\*.stl)** from the dropdown.
4. Click **Options** and set the resolution to **Fine**.
5. Click **OK**, name your file, and click **Save**.

### Assigning Colors for Material Regions

To define different material regions before export, assign colors in SolidWorks:

1. In the feature tree, right-click on a body or part.
2. Select **Appearance > Color**.
3. Choose a color and click **OK**.

When exported as STEP, these colors are recognized by Glossi as separate material regions. You can then assign different materials to each region in Glossi Studio.

> **Note:** Color assignment is only necessary if you need different materials on different parts. If the entire model uses one material, no color assignment is needed.


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