Prompting and workflow
How to convert text to CAD
Short answer
To convert text to CAD, write a prompt that names the part and states every key dimension, generate the model, tune the values with the dimension sliders, refine it by asking the AI assistant for specific changes, then export STEP for engineering work or STL for 3D printing.
Converting a written description into an editable CAD model takes five steps. Here is the full workflow with TextoCAD.
Write better text to CAD prompts
The quality of your prompt drives the quality of the result. A weak prompt like "make a bracket" leaves too much open. A strong prompt states the size and every important feature: "Create an L bracket, 60 mm by 40 mm legs, 4 mm thick, with two 6 mm holes per leg and 2 mm fillets."
New to the concept? Start with what is text to CAD. Printing the result? See text to CAD for 3D printing.
Step by step
- 1
Write a clear prompt
Name the part, list the key dimensions, and describe the main features. Be specific about sizes, hole diameters, and wall thickness.
- 2
Generate the model
Submit the prompt. TextoCAD generates an editable parametric CAD model in your browser based on your description.
- 3
Tune the parameters
Use the dimension sliders to adjust sizes precisely. Slider changes are processed locally and do not consume credits.
- 4
Refine with the AI assistant
Ask for changes in plain English, such as adding holes, fillets, or chamfers, and iterate until the model matches your intent.
- 5
Export STEP or STL
Export a STEP file for CAD and engineering workflows, or an STL file for 3D printing.
Frequently asked questions
How detailed should my prompt be?
Detailed enough to remove ambiguity. Always include overall size, key feature dimensions, hole sizes, and wall thickness. The clearer the dimensions, the closer the first result will be.
What if the first result is not right?
That is normal. Adjust dimensions with sliders, then ask the AI assistant for specific changes. Text to CAD is iterative, and most models take a few refinements.
Can I reuse a model later?
Yes. Save the project, reopen it any time, change a parameter, and re-export. Saved projects keep their parametric structure.
Keep reading
More on prompting and workflow.
What is text to CAD?
Text to CAD means turning a written description of a part into a 3D CAD model. Learn how AI text to CAD works, what it is good for, and how it differs from traditional CAD.
Text to CAD for 3D printing
Use text to CAD for 3D printing. Describe a part, generate an editable model, set exact dimensions, and export a printable STL file ready for your slicer.
CAD prompt examples
Twelve copy and paste text to CAD prompts for brackets, plates, gears, enclosures and more, plus the pattern that makes a prompt produce an accurate model.
Convert your first description into CAD
Open the editor, write a prompt, and follow the five steps above.