Overview #
Panel size defines the working area for your perforated design. In HoleSnap, canvas width and height are entered in millimeters, which makes it easier to prepare patterns for laser cutting, CNC, sheet metal prototypes, and CAD export.
Why Panel Size Matters #
The canvas size controls where holes can be generated and how the final file is scaled. If the canvas is too small, the pattern may be clipped. If it is too large, the hole count and file size may grow more than expected.
Panel size affects:
- The physical dimensions of the exported design.
- The number of holes that fit inside the panel.
- Open area and visual density.
- Edge spacing and boundary behavior.
- Export scale in SVG, DXF, PNG, and STP.
Set Width and Height #
Open the Canvas panel and enter the width and height of the panel.
For example:
- 120 x 80 mm for a small enclosure vent.
- 300 x 200 mm for a prototype plate.
- 500 x 500 mm for a square decorative panel.
Use real production dimensions whenever possible. This makes the exported file easier to verify in CAD/CAM software.
Use Aspect Lock #
The aspect lock keeps the width-to-height ratio while resizing. Use it when the panel should keep the same proportion but become larger or smaller.
Turn the lock off when you need to enter independent width and height values.
Choose a Preview Background #
The background controls how the design appears on screen. It helps with visibility but does not necessarily represent exported material.
Use:
- White background for dark holes or dark geometry.
- Black background for bright colored hole previews.
- Transparent background when checking overlay behavior.
- Custom color when matching a product or presentation style.
Check the Preview After Resizing #
After changing panel size, use Fit View to bring the full canvas back into view. Then check the status bar and preview.
Watch for:
- Holes too close to the edge.
- Unexpected changes in hole count.
- Minimum bridge becoming too small.
- Pattern density changing after resizing.
Before Export #
Before sending the file to fabrication, open the exported file in CAD/CAM software and confirm the size. A quick scale check can prevent costly mistakes.
