How to Create PAT File in AutoCAD?

Creating a PAT File in AutoCAD

Creating a custom PAT (Pattern) file in AutoCAD allows you to define unique hatching patterns tailored to your designs. This guide will walk you through the process step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Pattern Design

Before diving into AutoCAD, conceptualize the pattern you want to create. A PAT file in AutoCAD defines how the hatching will appear in your drawings, often represented in a grid-like format. Prepare to describe the pattern, including its spacing, scale, and repetition.

Step 2: Open AutoCAD Options

1. Launch AutoCAD 2025.
2. Open the options dialog by typing OP in the command line and pressing Enter.
3. Navigate to the ‘Files’ tab to configure your workspace.

Step 3: Configure Support File Search Path

1. In the ‘Files’ section, find the ‘Support File Search Path’.
2. Click ‘Add’ to include a new folder where you plan to save your custom PAT files. Ensure this folder is easily accessible.
3. Confirm your changes by clicking ‘OK’ to exit the options dialog.

Step 4: Create and Save the PAT File

1. Open a text editor such as Notepad.

2. Begin defining your new hatch pattern using the PAT file syntax. A basic structure includes the pattern name, followed by the scale and geometry. For example:

   *MyCustomHatch, My custom hatch pattern
   0, 0, 0, 0, 10, 0, 10, 10

3. After defining your pattern, save the file with a .pat extension. Make sure the filename reflects the pattern name (e.g., MyCustomHatch.pat).

Step 5: Load the Custom Pattern in AutoCAD

1. Return to AutoCAD and start the hatch command by typing HATCH in the command line.
2. In the Hatch Creation tab, navigate to the ‘Pattern’ panel.
3. Change the hatch pattern type to ‘User Defined’.
4. Locate your newly created PAT file in the folder you added earlier. Select it and apply the pattern to your drawing.

Step 6: Verify Your Custom Pattern

1. Once applied, check the area where you used the hatch pattern to ensure it appears as intended.
2. If adjustments are needed, return to the text editor, modify the pattern’s description, and save the file again. Reload the pattern in AutoCAD following the previous steps.

FAQs

How do I find where my PAT files are stored in AutoCAD?
By default, PAT files can typically be found in the AutoCAD installation folder under the ‘Support’ directory. However, if using a custom folder, ensure to check the path you added in your support file search settings.

Can I share my PAT files with other users?
Yes, PAT files are text files and can be easily shared. Provide the file to others, ensuring they follow similar steps to add the file to their AutoCAD support paths.

What if my custom hatch pattern doesn’t appear after I load it?
If the pattern doesn’t show, verify the syntax of your PAT file for any formatting errors. Additionally, ensure that the file is in the correct folder added in the AutoCAD options, and try switching the pattern type to user-defined again.