how to edit cut list table in solidworks

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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06-02-2025

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SolidWorks' Cut List feature is invaluable for creating detailed manufacturing documentation. But what happens when you need to modify your cut list table after creation? This guide walks you through editing cut list tables in SolidWorks, covering various scenarios and techniques. We'll show you how to easily adjust quantities, materials, and other crucial information.

Understanding the Cut List Table in SolidWorks

Before diving into editing, let's briefly review what a Cut List table is. This table summarizes the components needed for a project, detailing the quantity, material, size, and other relevant properties of each part. It's an essential tool for efficient manufacturing and accurate material ordering.

Accessing the Cut List Table

The first step is accessing the table itself. There are several ways to do this, depending on how you created the cut list:

• From the Drawing: If your cut list is embedded within a SolidWorks drawing, double-click the table to open it for editing.
• From the Design Table: If the cut list originates from a design table, open the design table directly. You'll make changes here, which automatically update the cut list.

Editing the Cut List Table: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let's explore the different editing methods:

1. Modifying Quantities

Perhaps the most common edit involves changing the quantity of a particular part. This is straightforward:

1. Locate the Part: Find the row corresponding to the part whose quantity you want to change.
2. Edit the Quantity: Directly edit the "Quantity" column for that row.
3. Update the Table: SolidWorks will usually automatically update the table totals once you make this change.

2. Changing Material Properties

If a design change dictates a different material, follow these steps:

1. Identify the Row: Locate the specific part in the cut list table.
2. Modify Material: Change the material designation in the appropriate column.
3. Review Updates: Check if any other properties (weight, cost, etc.) automatically update based on the new material selection. If not, manually update those fields.

3. Adding or Deleting Rows

Adding or removing parts from the cut list is also essential.

• Adding a Row: Most Cut List tables have an option to add new rows. Use the table's built-in functionality to insert a new row and input the necessary data for the new component.
• Deleting a Row: Similarly, select the row you wish to delete and use the table's delete function to remove it.

4. Editing Part Properties

Besides quantity and material, you might need to alter other part properties, such as dimensions or descriptions:

1. Locate the Property: Find the column representing the property you want to modify.
2. Make the Change: Edit the cell directly.
3. Check for Dependencies: Be mindful of how this change might affect other parts of the table or your overall design.

5. Using the SolidWorks Design Table

For complex cut lists with many variations or configurations, using SolidWorks' Design Table is highly recommended. This allows you to create multiple cut lists simultaneously based on different parameters. Changes made to the Design Table propagate automatically to all associated cut lists.

Tips for Efficient Cut List Editing

• Regularly Back Up: Before making significant changes, back up your cut list or the entire SolidWorks file. This prevents data loss if something goes wrong.
• Use Design Tables: For dynamic cut lists, always use a Design Table for easier management and updates.
• Understand Relationships: Be aware of how changes in one part of the cut list affect other components and overall totals.
• Review Thoroughly: After editing, always review the updated table carefully to ensure accuracy and consistency.

Conclusion

Editing cut list tables in SolidWorks is a fundamental skill for any engineer or designer. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can efficiently manage and modify your cut lists, ensuring accurate and up-to-date manufacturing documentation. Mastering these techniques will significantly streamline your workflow and improve overall project management. Remember to utilize the power of SolidWorks' Design Table feature for complex projects involving multiple configurations and variations.