When to connect an AI model
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Use a connected AI model for custom designs, videos and reusable procedures. It works through Sawdust's chat and tools as a separate assistant from Dusty.
Dusty handles a defined set of building, editing and support tasks. It can build from existing plans, work on parts in the project, point you to support articles, and file bug reports. It is not the general-purpose AI model you can connect to Sawdust.
Connect a capable AI model when you want to develop a custom design, make a video about a build, or turn a design into a reusable procedure. The model can use Sawdust's tools to do that work with you. You can start with a connected model or bring one in after working with Dusty.
A reply saying Dusty has no suitable plan describes Dusty's limits. It does not mean Sawdust cannot model the design or that you cannot work on it through the chat. The connected model can develop a design beyond Dusty's plans; what it can accomplish depends on the model you use.
1. Choose where to work with the model
To keep working inside Sawdust, choose Add your AI model, then Use an API key, and follow the setup instructions. The connected model uses the same chat panel and can work on your current project. API usage is billed by the model provider.
To work from Claude or ChatGPT, choose Connect Claude or ChatGPT. Follow the instructions in Connect an AI assistant to Sawdust to give that assistant access to your Sawdust project.
2. Tell the model what you want to do
Describe the design or task and include any dimensions, materials or other requirements you have already chosen. You can continue with requests such as "Make a video explaining this build" or "Turn this design into a procedure with adjustable width and height." These requests go beyond the tasks Dusty carries out.
Inside Sawdust, the name and avatar above a reply identify the assistant that answered. If Dusty and a model are enabled together, Dusty handles requests it can carry out and the model handles the others. To work directly with the model for every request, select its name on its own in the chat's model selector.
Request a community plan
If you would prefer to request a plan for someone to develop later, use the community design link below Dusty's connection buttons. Its wording includes the design when Dusty has identified it, such as Ask the community to design your canoe. Describe what you want to make and submit the request.
Requests approved for the community board are listed there for others to vote on. Submitting a request does not create a model in your project or guarantee that someone will design it.