Draftsight

How to Print Color in Draftsight?

Understanding Color Printing in Draftsight

When working in Draftsight, printing in color can enhance the clarity and visual impact of your drawings. The process to achieve this is straightforward if you follow the detailed steps provided below.

Step-by-Step Guide to Print in Color in Draftsight

Step 1: Configure Your Printer Settings

  • Begin by selecting your output device. This can be done in the ‘Print’ menu, where you will find a list of available printers.
  • After selecting the printer, click on the "Properties" button. This will open a new dialog box where you can adjust various printer settings as configured by the printer’s driver.

Step 2: Specify Color Options

  • Within the printer properties dialog, navigate to the color settings. This is typically found under the “Device and Document Settings” section.
  • Look for a button or option labeled “Color” or “Print in Color” to ensure that your drawings will print with vibrant colors.

Step 3: Adjust Print Preferences

  • Before finalizing your print job, review all preferences to ensure that you are outputting in color correctly. Check the Paper/Quality tab in your printer settings, and make sure that it is set to print in color rather than in black and white (B/W).

Step 4: Preview Your Document

  • It’s helpful to preview your document before printing. Use the “Preview” function available in the print dialog. This allows you to see how your colors appear on the intended layout and make adjustments if necessary.

Step 5: Execute the Print Command

  • After confirming that all settings are to your liking, proceed by clicking the “Print” button. Depending on your configuration, you may choose to print directly or to save the document for later printing.

Troubleshooting Color Printing Issues

Common Problems

If you notice that the colors aren’t printing as expected, consider checking the following:

  • Ensure your printer has color ink or toner loaded.
  • Confirm that the correct printer and paper settings are selected.
  • Sometimes, printer drivers can cause issues. It may help to update or reinstall the printer driver from the manufacturer’s website.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I print on different paper sizes in Draftsight?
Yes, Draftsight supports various paper sizes. You can select your desired paper size in the print settings under the “Paper Size” option.

2. How can I save my drawing as a PDF instead of printing it?
To export your drawing as a PDF, go to the ‘File’ menu, select ‘Export’, and then choose ‘PDF Export’. Follow the prompts to name your file and select the sheets you wish to convert.

3. Is there a way to print specific layers in color while others in black and white?
Yes, by using the layer properties manager, you can set specific layers to print in color while keeping others in black and white. Adjust the settings in the plot styles to achieve this effect before printing.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.