Autodesk Inventor

How to Create a Drawing Template in Autodesk Inventor?

Setting Up a Drawing Template in Autodesk Inventor

Creating a drawing template in Autodesk Inventor is essential to streamline your design process. A customized template allows you to maintain consistency across your projects in terms of layouts, styles, and formatting. Follow these detailed steps to create your own drawing template.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Drawing Template

Step 1: Open a New Drawing

Begin by launching Autodesk Inventor. Navigate to the top left corner, click on the File menu, then select New. This will prompt a dialog box.

Step 2: Select the Drawing Type

In the New File dialog box, choose the Drawing option. Here, you can either provide a specific name for your new template or accept the default name if it suits your needs.

Step 3: Enable Default Template Usage

Check the option labeled Use default template. This checkbox is selected by default, but make sure it remains checked to utilize the standard settings available.

Step 4: Create the Drawing

Select your desired option between Empty and Empty with format to determine if you want a blank canvas or one with pre-set formatting features. Click OK to move to the drawing creation phase.

Step 5: Access Template Mode

To switch to drawing template mode, go to the Tools menu and select Template. This step is crucial as it allows you to design and modify the drawing settings that will be included in your template.

Step 6: Customize Your Template

Once you’re in template mode, you can customize various drawing elements according to your project needs. You may want to establish specific borders, title blocks, annotations, and any other necessary components that can enhance the template’s functionality.

Step 7: Save Your New Template

After you’ve completed your adjustments, save the drawing template. Click on the File menu, then choose Save As. Ensure you designate the right folder, ideally your designated Templates directory in Autodesk Inventor, and use the appropriate file extension (.dwt) for template files. Name your template thoughtfully for easy identification later.

Step 8: Verify and Use Your Template

To ensure your template is properly set up, access it by navigating to File > New. Your newly created template should appear in the list in the Default tab whenever you want to start a new drawing using that template.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where can I find the default drawing templates in Autodesk Inventor?
Default drawing templates can be found in the Templates directory specified in your current project settings. You can access this through the Folder Options within the Project window.

2. Can I import an existing AutoCAD template into Autodesk Inventor?
Yes, it is possible to import AutoCAD templates. Use the option File Open, select *AutoCAD drawings ( .dwg)** in the Files of Type list, then open the desired AutoCAD template. Save it as an Autodesk Inventor template afterward.

3. What if I want to revert changes made to my drawing template?
If you need to revert your template to its original version, you can either close the template without saving or replace the modified template file with a backup copy that you had saved previously.

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.