When you add colors to your SOLIDWORKS files, you can select colors from a standard color palette like this one:

But quite often users want to add their own custom colors. This could be company specific colors or colors based on the international color standard RAL. In the case of RAL it is quite easy to find RGB color codes, which can be entered in SOLIDWORKS to define the desired RAL color. As long as you do not create a custom color swatch it could be a time-consuming task to define your color each time. So, in this tech blog I want to show you how to create your own custom color swatch, which will save you a lot of time when adding color to your parts.

Step-by-step process

1. In the Color PropertyManager, select Create New Swatch .

2. Enter a name for your custom color swatch and click Save.

Tip: you can change the file location for your color swatches in Tools-Options-File Locations.

3. Next you will see that the color swatch is added and that the swatch is empty.

4. Now we can start to fill our color swatch. Just choose a color or enter a RGB code. After that you select Add Current Color to Swatch .

5. Repeat step 4 until your color swatch is complete. In case you want to remove a color from your swatch, just select Remove Selected Swatch Color .

Conclusion

Now you know how to create your own custom color swatches in SOLIDWORKS, you will be able to color your parts fast and in the right color. Also, the possibility to share one color swatch with all your colleagues is a big advantage to meet your company standards.

Written by Martijn Visser

CAD2M

CAD2M believes in Industrial Equipment companies that want to make an impact. What drives us is to bring the most out of your employees. To help you in the best way possible, our employees have to be on top of their game as well. We live for challenges in process & product development. It is our passion. With our knowledge of processes we help your company work faster and smarter. We provide you with the best PLM, 3D design & engineering plus manufacturing tools. Want to grow together? CAD2M.