How to Change Layout Size in DraftSight?

Understanding Layout Size in Draftsight

Draftsight is a powerful CAD application that allows users to create and modify designs efficiently. One of the essential tasks that users often encounter is changing the layout size. Whether for printing or ensuring accurate presentation, adjusting the layout size is a critical step.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Layout Size in Draftsight

Access the Layout Tab

1. Begin by locating the layout tab at the bottom of the DraftSight window. This tab usually contains the different sheets or layouts you may have created.
2. Click on the specific layout tab that you wish to modify to bring it into focus.

Open the Page Setup Manager

1. After selecting the desired layout, go to the menu and click on the ‘Output’ tab.
2. Within this tab, find the ‘Plot’ panel. You will see an option labeled ‘Page Setup Manager.’
3. Click on ‘Page Setup Manager’ to open a dialog showing your current page setups.

Modifying Page Setup

1. In the Page Setup Manager dialog, find the area labeled ‘Page Setups.’
2. Here, identify and select the page setup that corresponds to the layout you want to adjust.
3. Click the ‘Modify’ button to access the page setup configuration options.

Choosing a New Paper Size

1. Once in the Page Setup dialog box, navigate to the ‘Paper Size’ section.
2. A dropdown list will be available, showcasing various paper sizes. Select the appropriate paper size from the list that fits your layout needs.
3. You can also create a custom paper size if the standard sizes do not meet your requirements by selecting ‘Custom’ from the dropdown options.

Finalizing the Setup

1. After selecting the desired paper size, click ‘OK’ to apply your changes.
2. Ensure that your layout is now correctly adjusted to the new size by inspecting it visually on the screen.
3. To confirm the settings, it’s a good idea to preview the layout by accessing the print preview option.

Additional Adjustments

Setting Up Printing Scale

• If your layout requires a specific scale for printing, revisit the ‘Page Setup Manager’ and ensure that the proper scaling factor is set. Adjusting the scale can be crucial for maintaining the dimensions of your drawings when printed.

Checking and Saving Changes

• After modifying the layout size, check the overall arrangement of your drawings or entities. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure everything fits appropriately within the new layout dimensions.
• To safeguard your work, save your project by clicking ‘File’ and then ‘Save’ or using the shortcut CTRL + S.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I create a custom paper size in Draftsight?
Yes, you can create a custom paper size by selecting the ‘Custom’ option in the Paper Size dropdown during the Page Setup process. After that, enter your desired dimensions and save the settings.

2. How do I ensure my layout prints correctly after resizing?
Always check the scale settings in the Page Setup Manager and use the print preview feature to ensure that your layout fits neatly within the defined paper size and that elements are positioned as intended.

3. What should I do if my changes do not appear when I print?
If the changes are not reflected in the print output, double-check the selected page setup and confirm that you are printing from the correct layout tab. Additionally, verify that the printer settings correspond with your defined page setup in Draftsight.