Learn how to import and export DWG files in Shapr3D, including supported sketch geometry, 2D drawings, export settings, and compatibility considerations.
What is a DWG file?
DWG is a CAD file format commonly used for 2D drafting, technical drawings, and exchanging design data between CAD applications.
In Shapr3D, DWG files can be imported as 2D sketches or exported from sketches and technical drawings.
Import DWG files into Shapr3D
Shapr3D supports importing 2D geometry from DWG files as sketches that you can use in your designs.
Supported geometry
The following 2D geometry can be imported from DWG files:
- Lines
- Polylines
- Bézier curves
- Arcs
- Circles and ellipses
- Polygons
Unsupported data
The following DWG content is not supported during import:
- 3D data
- Annotations, including text, dimensions, leaders, and arrows
- Entity names and visibility settings
- Line styles, including weight and pattern
- Colors, materials, and textures
- Relationships and constraints between model elements
- Metadata
Read more
For step-by-step instructions on importing files into Shapr3D, visit How to import files into Shapr3D.
Export DWG files from Shapr3D
Shapr3D supports exporting DWG files from sketches and 2D drawings. The available settings depend on the export type.
DWG from Sketch
Use DWG from Sketch to export sketch geometry for use in other CAD applications or manufacturing workflows.
The following export settings are available:
- Include Dimensions: Include locked sketch dimensions in the exported file. Unlocked dimensions are not included.
- File Name: Enter a name for the exported file.
- Include Hidden Items: Include hidden items in the export.
- Save Each 1st-Level Item Separately: Export first-level items as separate files, with file names based on their item labels.
DWG from Drawing
Use DWG from Drawing to export 2D technical drawings created in Shapr3D.
Under Drawings in Project, select the drawing you want to export. If your project does not contain any drawings, select Create Drawing to create one.
Read more
For step-by-step instructions on exporting files from Shapr3D, visit How to export files from Shapr3D.
Considerations when using DWG files
Sketches and drawings
DWG from Sketch exports sketch geometry from the modeling space, while DWG from Drawing exports technical drawings created in Shapr3D.
Choose the export type based on whether you need editable sketch geometry or a technical drawing for documentation and manufacturing.
Import compatibility
DWG files can contain information beyond the 2D geometry supported by Shapr3D. Unsupported elements, such as annotations and 3D data, are not imported as editable sketch geometry.
If you're exchanging sketches with another CAD application, you can also use DXF, depending on the requirements of your workflow.