Draftsight

How to Change Dimensions in DraftSight?

Understanding Dimension Change in Draftsight

Adjusting dimensions in Draftsight is crucial for creating accurate drawings. Below are detailed steps to effectively modify dimensions.

Step 1: Selecting the Dimension

To change dimensions, start by selecting the dimension text you wish to modify. Click on the dimension line or the text of the dimension. This action highlights the dimension and will enable you to edit its properties.

Step 2: Accessing the Properties Panel

Once the dimension is selected, navigate to the properties panel, usually located on the right side of the screen. If it’s not visible, go to the menu bar and select ‘View’, followed by ‘Toolbars’, and ensure the Properties panel is activated.

Step 3: Modifying Dimension Text

In the properties panel, locate the section labeled ‘Text Height’. Here you can adjust the size of the dimension text. Enter a new value in the Text Height field. For example, if the current text height is 2, changing it to 10 will significantly enlarge the dimension text, providing better visibility.

Step 4: Adjusting Other Dimension Properties

In addition to text height, you can modify other properties such as dimension color, style, and precision. To change the color, look for the ‘Text Color’ option within the same properties panel. Choose a color that stands out against your drafting background for enhanced readability.

Step 5: Updating and Viewing Changes

After making adjustments, check how your changes look within the drawing. If necessary, you can further fine-tune the dimensions by repeating the previous steps. Ensure each dimension aligns with your design’s requirements.

Step 6: Saving Your Adjustments

Once you are satisfied with the changes, save your work. This will ensure that all modifications are preserved in your Draftsight file. Use ‘File’ and then ‘Save’ or the shortcut Ctrl+S to complete this process.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I change multiple dimensions at once in Draftsight?

Yes, you can modify multiple dimensions by selecting them all before accessing the properties panel. Changes will apply to all selected dimensions, allowing for efficient adjustments.

2. Is there a way to revert dimension changes?

If you make a mistake, you can use the ‘Undo’ command (Ctrl+Z) to revert the last change. Additionally, you can always select the dimension and adjust it once more in the properties panel.

3. How do I ensure dimension accuracy in Draftsight?

To ensure accuracy, verify the drawing’s scale settings before making any dimension changes. Be familiar with dimension standards in your field to maintain precision in measurements and representations.

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.