How to Add Custom Properties to SOLIDWORKS Toolbox Components

SOLIDWORKS Toolbox includes a wide range of standard components such as bolts, nuts, washers, and bearings. While these components come with default properties, many companies need additional metadata such as Part Numbers, Descriptions, Finishes, or Vendor Information.

The Toolbox Custom Property Definition window allows you to add properties that populate automatically when components are used in assemblies. This ensures consistency in Bills of Materials (BOMs) and other downstream documentation.

1. Open the Toolbox Settings application.

   
   
   
2. Click on the Customize your hardware section
   
   

3. In the Toolbox Configuration interface:

   • Expand the Standard (e.g., ANSI, ISO, DIN).

   • Expand the Category (e.g., Bolts and Screws, Nuts, Washers).

   • Select the specific component type you want to modify (e.g., Hex Bolt).

4. Select the Add new Custom Property button.

   
5. Define the property details:
   1. Name
      1. The label for the property (e.g., Part Number, Finish, Vendor).
      2. This name will appear in the model’s properties and BOMs.
   2. Add as Configuration Specific Property (Yes/No)
      1. If set to Yes, the property is saved separately for each configuration of the Toolbox part.
      2. If set to No, the property is applied globally to all configurations of that part.
      3. Use this if you need size-specific part properties.
   3. Each Value Requires a Unique Configuration Name (Yes/No)
      1. Ensures that each unique property value generates its own configuration.
      2. Example: If “Finish” has values like Zinc, Black Oxide, and Stainless, enabling this option creates unique configurations for each finish.
   4. Show in PropertyManager (Yes/No)
      1. Determines whether this property appears in the PropertyManager when inserting the component.
      2. Useful if you want you want to choose or confirm the property value at placement.
   5. Property Type (Textbox/List)
      1. Textbox: Allows free text entry. Best for descriptions, part numbers, or notes.
      2. List: Provides a drop-down of predefined values. Best for controlled data such as materials, finishes, or suppliers.
   6. Overall Default Value
      1. Sets the value that will be used if the user doesn’t assign one.
      2. Helps standardize common attributes (e.g., default Finish = Zinc).
6. Fill in the properties as appropriate for each different configuration.
   
   
   
7. Once all desired properties are added, click the Save icon in the top left of the window.
   
   

The properties are now embedded in the Toolbox definition and will apply whenever that component is inserted into an assembly moving forward.