Tool path generation algorithm for 5-axis laser manufacturing based on ‘down hand’ cladding strategy was developed. According to the 3D line interpolation function of 5-axis CNC machine tool, a 3D path of laser manufacturing (expressing the movement of laser beam relatively to the part contour) can be defined by a set of successive linear links from one laser beam center position to another. Based on SolidWorks platform，a direct slicing approach from CAD models was introduced and tool path (including contouring and filling)generation algorithm was studied. The generation algorithm was implemented in the software SolidWorks and taper part was fabricated. The feasibility and practicability of this algorithm was demonstrated therefore. 