To convert a drawing to PDF in DraftSight, follow these detailed steps to ensure a smooth transition that maintains the integrity of your design.
Saving Your Drawing as a PDF
Open Your Drawing: Launch DraftSight and load the drawing you wish to convert.
Access the Save As Feature: Navigate to the ‘File’ menu located on the top-left corner of the interface. Click on it, and a dropdown menu will appear.
Select ‘Save As’: Click on the ‘Save As’ option. This will open a dialog box prompting you to choose the format for saving your file.
Choose PDF Format: In the ‘Save as type’ dropdown menu, look for the PDF format option. Select it to prepare your file for PDF conversion.
Set the File Name and Location: Enter a suitable name for your PDF file. Choose your desired location on your computer where you want to save this file.
Adjust Settings if Necessary: Before finalizing the save, you may have options to set the quality and other parameters for the PDF file. Adjust these settings according to your needs, especially if you are considering the format for a presentation or printing.
- Finalize the Save: Click the ‘Save’ button. Your drawing will now be converted into a PDF file and saved in the location you specified.
Exporting Multiple Layouts to PDF
Prepare Your Layouts: If you need to export multiple layouts at once, first ensure that the relevant layouts are set up correctly.
Access Publish Command: Go back to the ‘File’ menu and select ‘Publish’. This gives you access to export multiple layouts simultaneously.
Select Layouts: A dialog box will open, allowing you to choose which layouts you want to include in your PDF export. Hold down the Ctrl key to select multiple layouts as needed.
Set Output Preferences: In the ‘Publish to’ dropdown, choose PDF. Here, you may also specify if you want a multi-page PDF document containing all your selected layouts.
Adjust Export Options: Check for any additional settings that can be modified, such as the page size or output quality.
- Start the Publication Process: Click the ‘Publish’ or ‘OK’ button to initiate the export process. The layouts will be compiled into a single PDF file.
Quick Exporting to PDF
Utilize Quick Export: For a faster conversion, you can use the ‘Quick Export’ option found under the ‘File’ menu.
Select Export Settings: You may be prompted to select a few export settings, particularly if you haven’t set defaults yet.
- Export and Save: Once settings are selected, confirm the action to quickly export your drawing as a PDF file.
FAQs
1. Can I customize the PDF before saving it?
Yes, DraftSight allows you to adjust settings such as page size, quality, and whether layers are included before you finalize the PDF export.
2. Is there a way to convert drawings to PDF in bulk?
Absolutely. By using the Publish command in the File menu, you can select multiple layouts to export them all at once into a single PDF document.
3. What if the PDF does not look like my original drawing?
If the PDF does not match the original drawing, check the print style settings and ensure the quality settings are appropriate for your document. Adjusting plot styles and checking for color options can also help maintain fidelity.
