Draw with layers
Organize geometry around the cuts it needs.
A layer groups geometry in your drawing. In Upcut, layers also connect the design to machining: an operation targets layers rather than a hand-picked list of individual shapes.
Separate different cuts
Put geometry that needs different machining on different layers, even when the shapes look similar.
For example, a door might have:
| Layer | Geometry | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Profile | Outside perimeter | Cut the part's outline |
| Inner closed shape | Remove material inside the part | |
| Drill | Hole locations | Define drilling work |
Name layers for their purpose so the connection is clear when you create operations.
Intent is a starting point
A layer's machining intent helps establish defaults. It does not replace reviewing the operation's tool, depths, or other settings. Check those choices in the actual job before calculation.
Keep reference geometry separate
Use reference geometry for guides and other drawing information that should not be machined. Verify the layers targeted by each operation so helper geometry is not included unintentionally.
Reuse layers with components
When you place a component, its layers merge into the project by name, ignoring case and spacing. Consistent naming lets one operation cover the matching geometry from multiple placements.
Continue with Reusable components or Prepare toolpaths.