Adjusting Text Size in SolidWorks
SolidWorks provides various functionalities to manage text size, ensuring that your designs are not only accurate but also visually clear. Whether you’re working with model annotations, notes, or balloon texts, being able to adjust the text size is essential for readability and presentation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you increase and decrease text size according to your requirements.
Changing Dimension Text Size
Select the Dimension: Start by double-clicking on any dimension that you wish to modify. This will open the Modify dialog box.
Adjust the Value: You can change the dimension value using the arrows provided, a thumbwheel, or the mouse wheel. Alternatively, you can type the new value directly into the dimension box.
- Click OK: Once you’ve adjusted the dimension to your desired size, confirm your selection by clicking OK.
Using Keyboard Shortcuts
To quickly increase font size, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + ]. Hold the Ctrl key and press the right bracket key to enlarge the text instantly.
- Conversely, if you wish to reduce the font size back to normal, hold the Ctrl key and press the + key on the numeric keypad until you achieve the desired size.
Configuring Balloon Text Size
Select the Balloon: Right-click on the balloon text in your drawing.
Open Properties: From the context menu, select Properties.
Edit in Note PropertyManager: In the Note PropertyManager, make necessary changes to the text size or style. Hit OK to save your changes.
- Setting Custom Balloons: You may also adjust the default text size for balloons via Document Properties. Under the Balloons tab, you can set the text to reflect custom properties from a property list.
Setting Document Properties for Text
Navigate to Options Menu: Go to the menu bar and click on Tools, then select Options.
Access Document Properties: Within the Options dialog, locate and click on Document Properties.
Select Dimensions: From here, choose the Dimensions section where you can set how the text displays for dimensions, tolerances, and other properties.
Adjust Zero Formatting: You can customize whether to show trailing zeroes and how many decimal places to display, which also influences the overall text presentation.
- Save Changes: Be sure to apply and save your changes before exiting the dialog.
Utilizing Settings for Units
Manage Units: To show different units like feet and inches, go to Tools > Options > Document Properties > Units.
Adjust Dimensions in Feet & Inches: Change the unit settings to feet & inches and check the corresponding options for converting dimensions as needed.
- Confirm Changes: Make sure to click OK and apply these settings to ensure they take effect in your documents and drawings.
FAQ
Q1: What keyboard shortcuts help in adjusting text sizes quickly in SolidWorks?
A1: You can increase text size by pressing Ctrl + ] and decrease or reset it by pressing Ctrl + + on the numeric keypad.
Q2: Can I customize the properties of balloon text and dimensions?
A2: Yes, balloon text properties can be customized through the Properties menu, while dimension settings can be adjusted in the Document Properties section under Tools > Options.
Q3: How do I ensure that my text sizes apply consistently across multiple drawings?
A3: Setting your preferred text sizes and properties in the Document Properties ensures these settings apply to all future annotations in your drawings, maintaining consistency.
