Learn how to remove unwanted sketch segments using the Trim tool.
What is the Trim tool?
You can use the Trim tool to remove unwanted sketch items or segments. You can trim portions of intersecting geometry or remove standalone lines and curves.
How to use the Trim tool
- Within an existing sketch, go to Sketch > Trim.
For other ways to access tools, visit Accessing tools. - Select the sketch segments you want to remove. Continue selecting segments as needed.
- To finish, click anywhere on an empty area.
When to use the Trim tool
The Trim tool is useful for:
- Cleaning up overlapping geometry – Remove unwanted portions of intersecting lines and curves.
- Creating closed profiles – Trim excess segments to define profiles for extrusion or other modeling operations.
- Creating openings and cutouts – Remove portions of sketch geometry to form the boundaries of openings.
- Refining complex sketches – Simplify intersecting geometry by removing unnecessary segments.
Best practices and troubleshooting
- Zoom in when working with closely spaced sketch segments to make accurate selections.
- Check where sketch lines and curves intersect before trimming to avoid removing the wrong segment.
- Review the remaining sketch geometry to make sure the intended profiles are closed.
| Issue | What to check |
|---|---|
| The wrong sketch segment is removed. | Undo the action, zoom in, and select the intended segment. |
| An entire sketch item is removed instead of a segment. | Check whether the item has intersections that divide it into separate segments. Without intersections, Trim can remove the entire item. |
| The remaining sketch does not form a closed profile. | Check for gaps or missing connections between sketch endpoints. |
Read more
- Accessing tools – Understand how tools appear based on what you select in the modeling space.
- Selecting geometry – Master selection techniques for edges, faces, sketches, and bodies.
- Defining and calculating numerical values – Learn how to apply dimensions, enter precise values, and use formulas.
- Keyboard shortcuts, gestures, and hotkeys – View keyboard shortcuts you can use to access tools and speed up actions.
- Variables and expressions – Set up reusable values and expressions to control your design parametrically.