KiCad 9.0 – Getting Started Part 7: Images, Gerber Files and BOM | DigiKey

In the final episode of our KiCad video series, we bring everything together to wrap up your water alarm project. This step-by-step guide shows you how to add custom graphics to your board, finalize your title block and revision details, and make sure your layers are correct for fabrication. You’ll learn how to: • Import and position a black-and-white image onto the Front Silkscreen layer • Properly size and place art while avoiding common PCB printing mistakes • Use the Page Settings menu to match schematic revision details and format your drawing sheet • Add custom revision text and flip it between board sides • Dimension your PCB using the Edge.Cuts layer and Orthogonal Dimensioning tool With the layout finished, you'll run a Design Rules Check (DRC) to catch any last-minute errors, review your board in 3D, and prepare your Gerber files. We walk you through: • Plotting the correct output layers • Generating drill files • Reviewing your files in the built-in Gerber Viewer • Zipping them for DKRed upload Once ready, you’ll upload your Gerbers to DigiKey’s DKRed tool and watch how it automatically assigns layers. We also guide you through preparing a clean, exportable BOM from your schematic: • Filter unnecessary fields like footprints • Reorder columns for clarity • Save and clean your CSV for DigiKey import We even show how to drag that BOM into DigiKey’s cart system and spot deals like getting 10 boards for less than the cost of 4. You’ll leave this episode with your full parts list, your boards ready for fabrication, and the satisfaction of a job well done. Bonus: Tips for tweaking the final design to reduce board size or run off a 9V battery, and how to set it up in real-world locations like under sinks or next to a toilet. Don’t forget — this is just the beginning of what KiCad can do. If you’re interested in simulations, plugins, or deeper documentation, check out the official KiCad manuals at docs.kicad.org.