What is the minimum number of guide curves required to create a loft?

In the context of creating a loft in SolidWorks, it's important to recognize that a loft can be created without any guide curves at all. The basic requirement to form a loft is at least two profiles (cross-sections) that the software can interpolate between to create the 3D shape.

When no guide curves are specified, SolidWorks will generate the loft by logically connecting the profiles based on the provided shape and adjacency. This allows for flexibility in shaping the loft; however, guide curves can be introduced to control the loft more precisely and to influence the path and smoothness of the transition between profiles.

Ultimately, the ability to create a loft with just the profiles means that the minimum number of guide curves required is indeed zero.