How Do I Change Dimension in AutoCAD?

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Changing dimensions in AutoCAD is a fundamental skill that every CAD designer should possess. Whether you need to adjust the size of an object or modify the overall scale of your drawing, understanding how to change dimensions is essential. In this tutorial, we will explore different methods to change dimension in AutoCAD using various tools and commands.

Method 1: Using the Scale Command

The Scale command in AutoCAD allows you to resize objects proportionally. Follow these steps:

  1. Select the object(s) you want to resize.
  2. Type ‘SCALE’ on the command line or access it from the Modify panel in the Home tab.
  3. Specify a base point for scaling or type ‘R’ for reference.
  4. Enter a scale factor or specify a reference length and new length.
  5. Press Enter to complete the scaling process.

Method 2: Using Grips

Grips are small squares that appear when you select an object in AutoCAD. They allow you to easily manipulate and change dimensions. Here’s how:

  1. Select the object(s) whose dimensions you want to change.
  2. Click on one of the grips that appear on the object.
  3. Drag the grip to adjust the size or use specific grip editing options like ‘Stretch’, ‘Scale’, ‘Rotate’, etc., available from contextual menus.

Method 3: Using Stretch Command

The Stretch command is useful when you need to modify specific areas within an object without changing its overall shape. Follow these steps:

  1. Select the object(s) you want to stretch.
  2. Type ‘STRETCH’ on the command line or find it in the Modify panel.
  3. Select the boundaries that define the area you want to stretch.
  4. Click and drag one of the objects’ grips to stretch it to the desired dimension.
  5. Press Enter to complete the stretching process.

Method 4: Using Properties Palette

The Properties palette provides an alternative way to change dimensions in AutoCAD. Here’s how:

  1. Select the object(s) you want to modify.
  2. Right-click and choose ‘Properties’ from the contextual menu, or press ‘Ctrl+1’.
  3. The Properties palette will appear, displaying various properties of the selected object(s).
  4. Locate and modify the dimensions either by directly typing in new values or using up/down arrows beside each dimension property.

Note:

Remember, changing dimensions in AutoCAD can have significant impacts on your design. Always double-check your modifications and ensure that they align with your project requirements. It’s also a good practice to save your drawing before making any dimensional changes, allowing you to revert back if needed.

In conclusion, changing dimensions in AutoCAD is a crucial skill for any CAD designer. Whether you use the Scale command, grips, Stretch command, or Properties palette, understanding these methods will empower you to create accurate and precise designs.

Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for your workflow. Happy designing!