How extrusion works

When you draw a 2D shape in CADit, it automatically extrudes into a 3D object. This means your flat drawings gain depth and become solid forms you can 3D print.

• New shapes extrude to a default height of 20mm
• Each shape maintains its own height value
• Shapes with greater height appear taller in the 3D panel

The extrusion is always perpendicular to the drawing surface, creating a solid column from your 2D outline.

Using the Height tool

The Height tool lets you adjust the extrusion height of shapes by dragging handles in the 3D panel.

How to use:

1. Select the Height tool from the 3D toolbar
2. Select a shape (or select a shape first, then switch to the Height tool)
3. Drag the top handle up or down to change the extrusion height
4. Drag the center handle to translate the shape vertically without changing its height

The 3D panel updates in real time as you drag.

Setting exact height

For precise control, enter a specific height value in the Details panel:

1. Select a shape using the Transform tool
2. Open the Details panel
3. Enter the desired height value in millimeters

This is useful when you need shapes to match specific dimensions for 3D printing.

Height and shape types

The Height tool works with all drawable shapes:

• Freehand paths
• Rectangles
• Circles
• Stars
• Hearts
• Polygons
• Text

Filled vs. outline shapes

• Filled shapes extrude into solid 3D objects
• Outline shapes (strokes) extrude as raised edges, creating a 3D outline of the original path

Tips

• Shapes overlap based on height. Taller shapes appear on top when viewed from above.
• In Doodle Mode, all shapes of the same color share a layer height. Adjust the height in the layer panel rather than per shape.
• Height is measured in millimeters (mm), matching standard 3D printing units.
• To create recessed areas, use hole shapes instead of reducing height to zero.

Example Below