Step 1: Sketch to scale drawings
Supplies needed: 1ft ruler, paper, pencil
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We will start with something easy, drawing out on a piece of paper a basic keychain or nametag design. We will use that to help make a computer model of it later today.
Think of something simple, be it your name, a basic design of something you like, or whatever. Just make sure it is made of simple lines or shapes. 
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Step 2: Measuring
Supplies needed: 1 ft ruler and your drawing from earlier.
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Before we can make a computer model of your design, we need to take measurements of your drawing. That way we can use these measurements to make the model.
You need to measure the length of each straight side and the diameter of each circle. Here are some pictures to the right to help you know what this means. We will use these measurements to make your sketch in the computer. |
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Before we can make the computer model, we need to make sure you have Fusion 360 installed on your computer. This software can only be installed on a Windows or Mac computer. It does not work on a Chromebook. If it is already on your computer, you'll see an icon like this and you can open it now. If not, you'll need to install it.
It is free for students and educators. You can use this website to apply to get free student or educator access. https://www.autodesk.com/education/home |
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Step 3: CAD Sketching
Go ahead and open up Fusion 360 on your computer and your teacher will take you through sketching basics. You will follow along on the computer with what your teacher is showing you. After you finish the activity with your teacher, you can start working on your keychain design on the computer. Remember to ask for help if you need it!
If you are not taking the class in person with us, follow along with this sketching tutorial.
If you are not taking the class in person with us, follow along with this sketching tutorial.
CAD Design: Making a keychain name tag
Now that you've learned the basics of how to sketch on the computer, you are ready to try and make the design you sketched out earlier today.
Higher level sketching and extrusion design example
If you finish your nametag design and you get the ok from your teacher that we can print it, you can start your own project. Think of something that you think is cool and start sketching it, make it 3D