Based on contributions by StevenVanDerGaag.
It’s easy to lose track of which SolidWorks version you’re on, especially after printing several parts with small variations. Embedding the version number directly into the part’s geometry (as engraved or cut text) makes the version physically visible on the printed part, so you can’t mix up which one is current.
What you need
- SolidWorks.
- A part you’re actively iterating on.
Steps
1. Adopt a version-naming convention
Save each new version under a new file name using Save As. Use a consistent pattern, for example partname V1.4 → partname V1.5 for small changes, and bump to partname V2.0 for a larger change such as a redesign of a major feature.
2. Add a text sketch for the version label
Decide where to place the version text — a horizontal surface gives cleaner-looking letters than a vertical one. Create a sketch and use the Text sketch tool (next to the Ellipse tool in the sketch toolbar).
3. Link the text to the file title property
In the Text sketch tool, click Link to Property. Under Property name, choose the property you want to display — the File Title works well here, since it will show the file name (including your version suffix) automatically. You can still click to place the text manually, or select a curve/edge to have the text follow it. Uncheck Use document font if you want to change the font or size.
4. Cut or extrude the text
Extrude or extrude-cut the text sketch into the part. Every time you save a new version under a new name, use Rebuild to update the text immediately to match the new file title.
Do not cut all the way through the part when using an extruded cut for the text. Letters with enclosed areas (like “p” or “o”) will leave loose “islands” of material that fall out once you cut through — set the cut depth to stop short of a full through-cut.
Related
Rewritten and consolidated (Sept 2026) from the original student how-to’s: How to keep track of your solidwork versions (implement title into design).