Creating a Layout in AutoCAD LT
Introduction:
AutoCAD LT is a powerful software that allows you to create precise 2D drawings. One important aspect of using AutoCAD LT is creating layouts, which help you organize and present your drawings effectively. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of creating a layout in AutoCAD LT.
Step 1: Opening the Layout Tab:
To start creating a layout, open your drawing file in AutoCAD LT. Once the file is open, locate the bottom-left corner of the application window and find the “Layouts” tab. Click on it to access the layout workspace.
Step 2: Creating a New Layout:
In the layout workspace, click on the “+” button next to the existing layouts to create a new one. A dialog box will appear, prompting you to enter a name for your new layout. Give it an appropriate name and click “OK”.
Step 3: Setting Up Page Size and Orientation:
Once you have created a new layout, it’s time to set up the page size and orientation. To do this, navigate to the “Page Setup” group on the “Layout” tab and click on “Page Setup Manager”.
In the dialog box that appears, select your desired paper size from the list and choose whether you want your layout to be in portrait or landscape orientation. Make sure to click “OK” to apply these settings.
Note: You can also customize other settings such as plot style table, plot scale, and plot area if required.
Step 4: Adding Viewports:
Viewports are windows that display different parts of your drawing within the same layout. To add viewports, go to the “Layout” tab and click on “Viewport” in the “Layout” group. Choose the desired viewport style from the options provided and click to place it on your layout.
Note: You can adjust the size and position of viewports by clicking and dragging their boundaries.
Step 5: Arranging Viewports:
To arrange viewports, select a viewport by clicking on it. You will notice that grips appear at the corners and edges of the viewport.
Click and drag these grips to resize or move the viewport as desired. You can also use the “Scale” option in the “Properties” palette to adjust the scale of individual viewports.
Step 6: Adding Title Block and Text:
A title block is a pre-designed section of your layout that contains information about your drawing, such as project name, date, and sheet number. To add a title block, go to the “Layout” tab and click on “Title Block”.
Choose a title block style from the list or create a custom one. Once added, you can edit text fields within the title block by double-clicking on them.
Note: You can also add other text elements using the “Text” command in AutoCAD LT.
Step 7: Saving Your Layout:
After completing all necessary adjustments and additions to your layout, make sure to save your work. Go to “File” > “Save” or use Ctrl + S shortcut to save your drawing file with all its layouts intact.
Conclusion:
Creating layouts in AutoCAD LT is an essential skill that allows you to present your drawings professionally. By following these steps, you can create organized layouts with properly sized viewports, title blocks, and text elements.
Experiment with different settings and styles to customize your layouts according to specific project requirements.