Workshop Sessions: Introduction to Solidworks CAD Software
Are you working on a physical product idea and want to start turning it into a design you can prototype?
This introductory SolidWorks workshop is designed for early stage innovators and makers who want to learn how to create simple 3D models and understand what is possible using CAD software.
Delivered by Solid Solutions, this session introduces the fundamentals of SolidWorks and provides practical guidance to help participants begin designing products ready for prototyping and manufacture.
Applications close on Monday 12 January 2026
About this session
This instructor led training session introduces participants to SolidWorks as a standard CAD package for product design. The session focuses on building confidence with core tools and workflows, followed by one-to-one time with the instructor and workshop team to explore individual questions.
- Introduction to the SolidWorks interface and workflows
- Creating simple 3D solid models
- Generating visual content from 3D CAD models
- Producing basic 2D drawings from 3D designs
- Understanding next steps and access to further training materials
Why Attend
Workshop Sessions is a practical skills programme designed to help early-stage innovators and makers gain hands on experience in manufacturing, product development and prototyping.
- Hear from experts in product prototyping and manufacture.
- Get one-to-one advice about your manufacturing questions and challenges.
- Meet and learn from peers on their own product development journey.
- See the world-class product prototyping facilities at Plus X Innovation Slough.
- Learn about common manufacturing processes, which ones might be most suitable for your product, and how the constraints and benefits effect you.
- Learn how to find and make deals with factories.
- Learn what manufacturers need to know from you, how to negotiate and get the best result.
- Learn more about things are made at scale, to help inform your product development.
Why Plus X Innovation?
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The people I have met here make it a dream coming in a few times a week! I don't see myself being able to go back to working from home the same way I did before coming to Plus X Innovation, I don't think I could leave the sense of community behind. It really is something everyone who is working from home should try!
Central Research Laboratory has contributed to our journey in many ways: access to a network, manufacturing, procurement services, and workshop facilities. CRL enables us to feel like a slightly bigger company than we would otherwise be if left to our own devices. Being here at CRL as a cohort member, makes it feel a lot more real and plugged in into the ecosystem.
Besides the workshop facilities, the best thing about working in the Brighton hub has got to be being able to collaborate with people in the same building as you. The variety of expertise and experience in the building is awesome.
We could not be in a better place to grow as a company. We get amazing support from the Plus X Innovation staff, plus collaboration opportunities with the other inspiring residents and companies. We feel like we’re living in the future of workplaces in the present and that is pretty damn cool.
Through my time at Plus X Innovation my business has turned from a student project into a registered R&D company. My favourite thing about being at Plus X Brighton is having a mini family in the office and a beautiful space to be the best you and make the best connections.
Session Facilitator
SolidSolutions offer SOLIDWORKS for Startups programmes across the UK and Ireland, supporting early-stage businesses to overcome product development challenges. They offers guidance on using CAD tools effectively and turning ideas into market-ready products. With extensive experience in CAD modelling, they bring technical insight and practical advice to every session.
About the series
Workshop Sessions are free, high value training programmes developed and delivered by Plus X Innovation. It provides participants with practical, accessible learning across three core areas: CAD modelling, manufacturing fundamentals, and optimising Kickstarter campaigns. Each session blends expert instruction, guided exercises and one to one support, giving participants both the skills and clarity needed to progress their ideas. The programme aims to demystify manufacturing, build technical confidence, provide access to cutting-edge prototyping facilities, and connect participants with a supportive community of peers and product development specialists.
This series consists of three sessions:
- 13th January: Introduction to Solidworks CAD Software (this session)
- 27th January: Workshop Sessions: Manufacturing 101
- 10th Febuary: Workshop Sessions: Kickstart Batch Production
Eligibility
The programme is suited to individuals at an early stage of developing a physical product. Participants should have an idea they want to progress, but do not need a completed prototype or prior experience in CAD, manufacturing or product development. Sessions take place at Plus X Innovation Slough, so participants must be able to attend onsite.
Applications close on Monday 12 January 2026.
