How to make a dashed line on AutoCAD

There are several methods to create a dashed line in AutoCAD, let’s explore the two most common ones: using the Linetype command and creating a Linetype definition.

1. The Linetype command:
The Linetype command allows you to change the line type of a selected object or set the linetype for new objects. To make a dashed line using this method, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open AutoCAD and create a new drawing or open an existing one.
Step 2: Draw a line or select an existing line that you want to convert to a dashed line.
Step 3: Type “Linetype” in the command line or navigate to the Home tab, in the Properties panel, click on the Linetype dropdown menu.
Step 4: From the list of available linetypes, select “Dashed” or any other suitable linetype that represents dashes.
Step 5: Now, apply the selected linetype to the line by either clicking on the line in the drawing area or selecting it from the object selection menu.

2. Creating a Linetype definition:
If the available linetypes do not suit your requirements, you can create a custom linetype definition. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Navigate to the Home tab and in the Properties panel, click on the Linetype dropdown menu.
Step 2: Select “Other…” at the bottom of the list of available linetypes.
Step 3: In the Linetype Manager dialog box, click on the “Load” button.
Step 4: In the Load or Reload Linetypes dialog box, click on the “File” dropdown menu and select “acad.lin” if it is not already selected. Click on “Open” to proceed.
Step 5: Now, you will see a list of predefined linetypes. Click on the linetype that closely represents dashed lines, such as “DASHED2” or “DASHED”.
Step 6: Click on the “Copy” button to duplicate the selected linetype.
Step 7: In the Linetype Composer dialog box, you can modify the dashed linetype’s properties as per your requirements. You can adjust the dash and gap lengths, add symbols, or change the scaling factor.
Step 8: Once you are satisfied with the modifications, click on the “Save & Close” button to save the linetype definition.
Step 9: Finally, you can apply the newly created linetype to any drawing object using the Linetype command as mentioned earlier.

Remember, the created custom linetype is only available in the current drawing. If you want to use it in other drawings, you will have to define it in those files as well.

In conclusion, AutoCAD provides various options to create dashed lines for representing hidden or construction lines in your technical drawings. By using the Linetype command or creating custom linetype definitions, you can easily achieve the desired line style. These techniques, combined with other powerful features in AutoCAD, make it an indispensable tool for accurate and professional design work.