Want to apply colors, textures and decals onto your models? After watching this Video Tech Tip, you will know the ins and outs of applying appearances in SOLIDWORKS.

When applying an appearance to a part file, there is a certain order of importance to work in. For example, start by using the color wheel on the right-hand side of the SOLIDWORKS interface. There are several predefined appearances here with a variety of reflections, shading styles and other options to drag onto the face, feature, body or part itself. This helps achieve a realistic appearance for different materials. In the video, I demonstrate this using a red, low-gloss plastic.

Take it one step further by holding the Alt key as you apply the appearance. This will prompt two tabs: (1) a Basic tab, enabling additional color settings and allowing you to store your appearances for later and (2) an Advanced tab with adjustments such as illumination, surface finish and mapping. Also note the flyout on the FeatureTree because this is where you can adjust, copy, paste or remove the appearance.

You can also define other appearances on assemblies as well. This can be done at the part or assembly level, which is useful when dealing with large assemblies where you are coloring individual components. The Quick Pick can help copy and paste appearances as well, so you are as efficient as possible on your project.

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