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.