Problem

In this article, we will cover the many tools within SOLIDWORKS that can be used to align the sketch origin with the part/assembly origin.

While sketching in SOLIDWORKS, users may notice a red, two-dimensional axis that depicts the horizontal (x-axis) and vertical (y-axis) directions. This is the sketch origin, and it is important to distinguish it from a part or assembly origin.

Keeping track of the sketch origin and ensuring it is correctly aligned is important since horizontal and vertical relationships rely on it, not the part/assembly origin.

Misalignment is commonly caused by: 

1. A sketch being copied from an existing part.
2. A block being inserted at an angle.
3. A sketch being rotated by the "Modify" tool.
4. A plane may have been created in an orientation different from the primary planes (rotated plane).

Solution 1: Align Grid/Origin

With existing geometry within a part, users can use the "Align Grid/Origin" tool to position the sketch origin correctly. This tool allows the user to select vertices and edges and use them to align the sketch origin. A sketch origin cannot be aligned using this tool with other sketches.

1. Navigate to Tools > Sketch Tools > Align > Align Grid/Origin
2. Select a vertex on the part to serve as the sketch origin point
   
3. Select an X or Y axis by highlighting the correct field in the property manager. To change the direction of one of the axes, select the icon
   
4. Choose to relocate the origin or all sketch entities
5. Select the green check to continue
   

Solution 2: Modify Sketch Tool

The "Modify Sketch" tool can be used to rotate and/or translate a sketch. This is helpful when needing to rotate the sketch origin without any physical geometry present. Note that the translate option is only available if the sketch is underdefined so that it can move positions. Below are steps on how to use the "Modify Sketch" tool to rotate a sketch origin.

1. Navigate to Tools > Sketch Tools > Modify
2. In the dialog box, set the rotation angle to the desired amount. Note: Negative numbers will rotate in a clockwise direction 
3. Select Enter to rotate the sketch origin and existing sketch elements
   
   Note: Holding down the right mouse button allows the mouse to rotate the sketch
   
4. Close the dialog box to finalize any changes

For additional support, existing customers can submit a ticket or new customers can contact Hawk Ridge Systems.