3D Design in Onshape: cabinet

How can an idea for a wooden product be developed into a precise 3D model and a useful plan for production?

In this course, we will learn the basics of Onshape and use them through practical exercises to design a small cabinet made from plywood or chipboard. The course is intended for anyone who wants to develop their ideas in a more considered, precise way and prepare them for work in the workshop.

The programme is also suitable for complete beginners with no prior knowledge of 3D modelling or Onshape.

Onshape runs entirely in a browser, so no software download is required. We recommend creating an Onshape user account before the course begins.

During the course, we will explore the full design process: from analysing a physical object or sketching an idea and preparing a basic technical drawing, to 3D modelling the cabinet body, defining individual parts, preparing a bill of materials and creating a workshop plan.

Special attention will be given to designing furniture from sheet materials: proper construction, joints, material thicknesses, backs, doors, fittings and preparing data for cutting. You will be able to adapt the dimensions and construction of the cabinet to your own wishes.

The aim of the course is for each participant to prepare a usable cabinet plan, which can later serve as a basis for independent making during open hours in the Wood Lab. The sample cabinet designed during this course will also be made as part of Module 5 of the Wood Lab’s in-house modular courses.

You will need your own laptop for the course.

Programme by session

Session 1: Specifics of cabinet furniture construction
We will get to know the most common materials used for cabinet furniture, their properties, construction principles and components. We will review basic woodworking joints, joining methods, and the choice and use of fittings in cabinet design.

Session 2: Getting to know Onshape and the basics of 3D modelling
We will explore the user interface, basic commands and working logic of Onshape, and create the first 2D sketch. We will use Sketch, Line, Rectangle, Dimension and Extrude tools to create a first simple 3D model.

Session 3: Modelling the cabinet in Onshape
We will create a 3D model of the cabinet, from the basic body to individual components, taking into account the selected material and construction. We will learn the basics of parametric modelling, references and efficient model organisation.

Session 4: Preparing the model for production
We will complete and review the 3D model and prepare individual components for production from sheet material. We will prepare a bill of materials and data for cutting and material optimisation.

Session 5: Workshop plan and final documentation
We will create a workshop plan with all key dimensions, check the components and construction details, and prepare the final documentation for the transition from 3D model to actual production.

The special feature of this course is the connection between digital design and real workshop practice. We will not be modelling an abstract example, but a concrete product that requires attention to material, construction, cutting and real-life production.

Schedule

The programme will take place over five sessions:

• Wednesday, 4 November 2026, from 17:00 to 20:00
• Thursday, 5 November 2026, from 17:00 to 20:00
• Wednesday, 11 November 2026, from 17:00 to 20:00
• Thursday, 12 November 2026, from 17:00 to 20:00
• Friday, 13 November 2026, from 17:00 to 20:00

In-house modular courses in the Wood Lab

This course is part of the Wood Lab’s in-house modular courses, designed so that participants can gradually build their knowledge by attending individual modules.

Participation in previous modules is not required for attending later modules, and the order of attendance is not mandatory. Each module is also suitable for complete beginners.

Modules:

1. Design Course 1: Basics of design, materials and joints in woodworking
2. Design Course 2: 3D design of wooden products in Onshape – cabinet
3. Hand Woodworking Course 1: Wood joints with hand tools – stool
4. HandWoodworking Course 2: Using handheld power tools – cabinet
5. Carpentry Course 1: Making a product from sheet materials – cabinet
6. Carpentry Course 2: Making a product from solid wood – chair
7. Introductory CNC course with training and a final product
8. Advanced CNC course

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Participants should gather in the entrance hall of Center Rog 15 minutes before the programme begins. Please store your personal belongings in the lockers indicated by the mentor. Do not be late, as this disrupts the working process. In case of late arrival, entry to the lab cannot be guaranteed.

The programme is held in Slovenian unless stated otherwise.

The programme is intended for participants over the age of 14 unless stated otherwise.

In case of cancellation, you will be notified two days before the planned start of the programme.