Beginner CAD in Onshape: Design From Zero to Your First Real Part

Beginner CAD in Onshape: Design From Zero to Your First Real Part

Curious about 3D design but not sure where to start? This hands-on beginner class is built for people who have never designed anything before and want a clear, friendly introduction to CAD (Computer Aided Design). We’ll use Onshape, a modern, browser-based CAD program that runs on most computers—no special software install required.
You’ll learn the core building blocks used in real-world product design and fabrication, including how to create sketches, apply dimensions and constraints, and turn those sketches into 3D parts. Along the way we’ll cover the “why” behind good modeling habits so your designs are easier to edit, reuse, and improve.
A highlight of the class is a practical reverse engineering exercise: we’ll reverse engineer a simple 1-2-3 block and recreate it in CAD using basic measuring tools (like a ruler or calipers). This teaches you how designers translate real-world dimensions into accurate digital models—an essential skill for 3D printing, woodworking, CNC, and general making.

What you’ll learn
· How CAD works and how to think like a designer
· Onshape basics: navigation, planes, sketches, and features
· Sketch constraints & dimensions (the secret to clean, predictable models)
· Creating 3D geometry: extrude, cut, fillet/chamfer, hole tools
· Measuring a real object and rebuilding it as a CAD model
· Best practices for creating models that are easy to modify
· Exporting your design for 3D printing or sharing

What you’ll make
By the end of the session, you’ll have a finished 3D model (based on a real object) and the confidence to start designing your own parts.

Who this is for
· Total beginners—no CAD, engineering, or design background needed
· Makers, 3D printing enthusiasts, hobbyists, and anyone who wants to learn a useful new skill

What to bring
· A laptop (Windows, Mac, or Chromebook recommended) with a modern web browser
· A mouse is strongly recommended for easier CAD navigation
· Optional but helpful: calipers or a small ruler
If you’ve been wanting to learn CAD but felt intimidated, this is the perfect place to start—come build something real and leave with a skill you can keep using.