Where Is Paper Space in AutoCAD?
In AutoCAD, Paper Space is a crucial feature that allows you to create and layout your final designs for printing or plotting. It provides a virtual sheet of paper where you can arrange and annotate your drawings. Paper Space is a separate environment from Model Space, where you create and edit your actual design.
Accessing Paper Space
To access Paper Space in AutoCAD, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Open your drawing file in AutoCAD.
- Step 2: Type “layout” in the command line and press Enter.
- Step 3: The “Layout” tab will appear at the bottom of the drawing area. Click on it to activate Paper Space.
The Layout Interface
Once you are in Paper Space, you will notice a different interface compared to Model Space. Here are some important elements within the Layout interface:
- Title Block: A title block is usually located at the bottom or right side of the layout. It contains information such as the drawing title, author, date, scale, etc.
You can customize the title block according to your needs.
- Viewport: Viewports allow you to display different views or portions of your model within the layout. You can create multiple viewports and adjust their size and scale as required.
- Annotation Tools: In Paper Space, you can add text, dimensions, symbols, and other annotations to provide additional information about your design. These tools are available in the ribbon or through command prompts.
Working in Paper Space
Now that you are in Paper Space, you can arrange your drawing and make necessary annotations. Here are some tips for working efficiently:
- Scale your Viewports: Use the “SCALE” command to adjust the scale of your viewports. This will ensure that your design fits properly on the printed sheet.
- Add Annotations: Utilize text, dimensions, and symbols to convey important information about your design.
You can use the various annotation tools available in AutoCAD to make your annotations clear and precise.
- Create Multiple Layouts: AutoCAD allows you to create multiple layout tabs within a single drawing file. This is useful if you need to create different versions or variations of your design.
Tips for Printing from Paper Space
When you are ready to print or plot your drawing from Paper Space, keep these tips in mind:
- Plot Configuration: Before printing, set up the plot configuration by selecting a suitable plotter, paper size, orientation, scale, etc. This can be done through the “Page Setup Manager” or by using the “PLOT” command.
- Preview: Always preview your plot before finalizing it.
This will help identify any issues with scaling or positioning before wasting actual paper.
- Paper Space Only: Make sure to select “Layout” instead of “Model” when plotting from Paper Space. This ensures that only the contents within the layout tab are printed.
Paper Space is an essential part of creating professional-looking drawings in AutoCAD. By understanding its features and utilizing them effectively, you can enhance the presentation and clarity of your designs.