Adding texture to to surface in SolidWorks
In solidworks, I have found you must model 3d dimensional textures... however, a program called Strata design 3d allows you to add textures to a part. (there is a free tryout of this software, that I used when designing an egg package for disney, which you can see on my profile.) Solidworks doesn't have the capability (as far as I know, and I don't know much...) to add a texture that is 3-dimensional.
It is possible to add a 2d texture (much like a decal) to a part. This gives you the feel of having a texture, but it wont 3d print with that texture. I have tried...
additionally, if you do get the free strata download, message me on my profile, and I can show you how to use it to apply a texture, like the leather texture you mentioned
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Step 1:
Go to your part and click appearances. It should bring up a side menu like the one shown. click texture instead of color (on the right)
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Step 2:
Once you open the texture menu, your part will be colored like shown.
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Step 3:
scroll down until you see an option to browse for an image. select the image of the texture you desire.
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Step 4:
there are some more options under the advanced version... here you can select a pre-made texture to apply (i used a chain link texture)
