How to Dimension in Vectorworks?

Understanding Dimensioning in Vectorworks

Dimensioning in Vectorworks is a crucial aspect of creating precise and informative drawings. It allows users to convey measurements and relationships between objects effectively. Here’s a detailed guide on how to work with dimensions in Vectorworks.

Setting Up Dimensional Standards

1. Opening the Document Preferences:
   Begin by navigating to the main menu. Select File, then proceed to Document Settings and choose Document Preferences from the dropdown.

2. Customizing Dimension Parameters:
   Within the Document Preferences dialog, find the Dimensions tab. Click on it, and then select the Custom option to modify existing dimension standards.

3. Editing the Standard:
   From the list of custom standards, choose one that you wish to adjust and click on Edit. You can now change various settings, such as units or styles. After making the necessary changes, confirm by selecting OK.

Adding Dimension Lines

1. Selecting the Dimension Tool:
   Ensure you have the Dimension tool selected from the appropriate palette or tool set. You can find this in the Tool Palette, often labeled as Dimension or similar.

2. Creating the First Measurement:
   Click on your starting point in the drawing. This will serve as your initial reference for the dimension.

3. Defining the Second Point:
   Move your cursor to the point you wish to measure to and click again. This action creates a dimension line between the two points you selected.

4. Placing the Dimension Line:
   After defining the two points, drag your mouse to position the dimension line where you desire it on your drawing, and click to finalize its location.

Modifying Dimension Properties

1. Accessing Dimension Properties:
   To change specific properties of an existing dimension, right-click on the dimension line you wish to alter. This opens a contextual menu.

2. Selecting Edit Dimension:
   From the contextual menu, select Edit Dimension. This allows you to modify attributes like size, font, and style for that particular dimension.

3. Adjusting Specific Elements:
   If you are dealing with compound dimensions (like chain dimensions), you may be required to alter the properties for individual dimensions. Right-click to access these options easily.

Utilizing the Tape Measure Tool

1. Locating the Tape Measure Tool:
   Find the Tape Measure tool in the tool palette of your workspace.

2. Initiating a Measurement:
   Click on the tool, and then click on the starting point within your design. This will signify where you want your measurement to begin.

3. Extending the Measurement:
   Move the cursor along the distance you wish to measure, and click at the endpoint to finish your measurement.

Measuring Angles in Vectorworks

1. Selecting the Protractor Tool:
   Activate the Protractor tool found in your tool palette, setting it to measure angles.

2. Choosing the First Segment:
   Hover over the first line segment of the angle you wish to measure. Click to select this segment.

3. Measuring the Angle:
   Move your cursor to the adjacent line segment that forms the angle and click again to complete the measurement.

FAQ

What shortcuts can I use to speed up dimensioning in Vectorworks?
While Vectorworks does not have predefined keyboard shortcuts for all dimension tools, users can set up custom shortcuts in the preferences menu for frequently used tools to enhance workflow efficiency.

Can I customize the appearance of dimensions in Vectorworks?
Yes, you can customize dimensions extensively, including their font, size, color, and line style through the Dimension settings within the Document Preferences.

Is it possible to remove a dimension once it has been placed?
Absolutely. To remove a dimension, simply select it, then press the Delete key on your keyboard, or right-click and choose Delete from the context menu.