How Do I Use Linetype Scale in AutoCAD?

Are you struggling with adjusting linetype scales in AutoCAD? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this tutorial, we will walk you through the process of using linetype scale in AutoCAD, step by step.

What is Linetype Scale?

Before we dive into the details, let’s understand what linetype scale actually means. In AutoCAD, linetypes are used to define the pattern of lines in your drawings.

The linetype scale determines the size of these patterns relative to the drawing units. It ensures that your linetypes appear consistent and visually pleasing across different scales.

Changing Linetype Scale

Now that we know what linetype scale is, let’s learn how to change it in AutoCAD:

  1. Method 1:
  2. If you prefer using the command line, simply type LTS and press Enter. This will open up the ‘Linetype Scale’ dialog box.

    • Type the desired linetype scale value in the ‘Global Scale Factor’ field.
    • Note: A scale factor of 1 means no change in size, while a value less than 1 will reduce the size and a value greater than 1 will increase it.
    • Click ‘OK’ to apply the changes.
  3. Method 2:
  4. If you prefer using the Ribbon interface, follow these steps:

    1. Select the ‘Home’ tab on the Ribbon.
    2. In the ‘Properties’ panel, locate and click on the ‘Linetype Scale’ drop-down menu.
    3. Choose the desired linetype scale from the list of available options. You can also select ‘Custom’ to manually enter a specific value.

Applying Linetype Scale to Objects

Now that we’ve learned how to change the linetype scale, let’s see how we can apply it to specific objects in AutoCAD:

  1. Select the objects you want to modify by clicking and dragging a selection box around them. You can also use the ‘Select’ command or press Ctrl and click on individual objects.
  2. Once the objects are selected, right-click and choose ‘Properties’ from the context menu.
  3. In the ‘Properties’ palette, locate the ‘Linetype Scale’ property. You can either choose an existing value or enter a custom one.
  4. Note: Applying a linetype scale to specific objects will override the global scale factor set for the entire drawing.

Tips for Working with Linetype Scale

To ensure optimal results when working with linetype scales, keep these tips in mind:

  • Consistency: Maintain consistency in your linetypes throughout your drawing by using appropriate scales for different elements.
  • Preview: Utilize AutoCAD’s preview feature to visualize how your linetypes will appear at different scales before applying them.
  • Paper Space: Remember that linetypes may appear differently in Paper Space compared to Model Space due to scaling factors. Always check and adjust accordingly.

Congratulations! You have now learned how to use linetype scale in AutoCAD.

By adjusting the linetype scale, you can enhance the visual quality and consistency of your drawings. Happy drafting!