Vectorworks

How to Change Line Color in Vectorworks?

Steps to Alter Line Color in Vectorworks

Understanding Class Attributes

  1. Identify Object Class: Open your drawing and select the object whose line color you wish to change. The color may be inherited from the object’s class, which determines its attributes, including line color.

  2. Check Class Settings: If your object has the "Use at Creation" option enabled, it follows the settings prescribed by its class. To adjust this, navigate to the Object Info Palette and review the class properties.

Selecting the Desired Color

  1. Access the Attributes Palette: Open the Attributes palette by selecting Window > Palettes > Attributes from the main menu. This palette is where you will set the line color.

  2. Choose Color By Class or Custom Color: Decide whether you want to use the class’s default color by selecting "Color By Class" or choose a different color. To set a custom color, click on the color box next to the line color option.

Changing the Line Color

  1. Set the Color: If you choose to customize the color, the color selection dialog will appear. You can either pick a color from the spectrum or enter a specific color code (like a hexadecimal value).

  2. Apply Changes: After selecting the desired color, ensure that the changes are applied by clicking elsewhere in the drawing space or deselecting the object.

  3. Preview Changes: Select the object again to view the updated line color. If you don’t see the change, make sure that the entity is correctly selected and that "Color By Class" is not enabled.

Utilizing the Eyedropper Tool for Matching

  1. Choose the Eyedropper Tool: For precision, you can match the line color of another object using the Eyedropper tool from the Basic palette.

  2. Set Tool Preferences: Click on Preferences in the toolbar to specify which attributes you want to transfer with the Eyedropper.

  3. Pick Up Color: Make sure to select "Pick Up Attributes" after setting your preferences. Then, click on the object whose line color you wish to replicate.

Checking Attributes

  1. Reviewing Current Settings: For any object, the attributes you’ve applied can be checked in the Object Info Palette. This will include all details about line color and fill styles.

  2. Modifying Further if Needed: If the line color isn’t to your liking, you can repeat the steps above until you achieve the desired outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply different line colors to multiple objects at once?

Yes, you can select multiple objects and change their line color simultaneously through the Attributes palette.

What should I do if my changes are not reflecting on the selected object?

Ensure that you have deselected "Color By Class" if you want to apply a custom color. Additionally, double-check that you are correctly selecting the desired object.

How can I save custom colors for future use?

In Vectorworks, you can save custom colors by adding them to a color palette for easy access in future projects.

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.