DesignSeeBuild Help
How to Read Your Manufacturing Drawings
A practical guide to dimensions, datums, faces, edges and fixing centres.
Read a drawing in this order
- 1. Identify the partMatch its part code and name to the cut list and component overview.
- 2. Check quantityRead the quantity or MAKE X OF THIS PART instruction before cutting.
- 3. Confirm finished sizeRead the overall dimension arrows and material thickness.
- 4. Orient the partFind the inside face, front edge and stated datum before marking out.
- 5. Read positionsMeasure fixing or feature centres from the stated datum—not from whichever edge is closest.
- 6. Confirm edgesMatch edge markings to the edge schedule before applying a finish.
What the marks mean
- Dimension arrows
- The distance between their extension lines.
- Datum
- The zero reference for the shown measurements.
- Inside face
- The face that points into the cabinet when assembled.
- Front edge
- The edge nearest the cabinet front in the finished assembly.
- Fixing centre
- The centre position of the connection intent along the joint.
- Edge banding
- A marked edge that carries the selected treatment.
- Quantity
- The number of identical physical parts required from that drawing.