Step 1: Set the Scale
The first step is to set the scale for your drawing. This will ensure that your printed drawing is accurately scaled to the desired size. To set the scale, follow these steps:
- Open your drawing in AutoCAD
- Click on the “Layout” tab
- Double-click on the layout you want to print
- Enter “PLOT” in the command line
- This will open the “Plot” dialog box
- In the “Plot Scale” section, choose the desired scale from the drop-down menu
By following these steps, you have now set the scale for your drawing.
Step 2: Adjust the Plot Area
Next, you’ll need to adjust the plot area to ensure that only the required portion of the drawing is printed. To do this, follow these steps:
- In the “Plot” dialog box, go to the “Plot Area” section
- Select either “Layout” or “Window” depending on your requirements
- If you choose “Window,” click on the “Window” button and select the portion of the drawing you want to print
- If you choose “Layout,” make sure the “Layout” option is selected in the “Plot Device” section
By adjusting the plot area, you can print only the necessary part of your drawing, saving both time and resources.
Step 3: Choose the Right Plot Style Table
Another essential aspect of printing to scale is selecting the appropriate plot style table. The plot style table determines how colors and lineweights are displayed in the final printout. To choose the right plot style table, follow these steps:
- In the “Plot” dialog box, go to the “Plot Style Table” section
- Select the desired plot style table option from the drop-down menu
- If you are unsure which plot style table to choose, consult your company’s drafting standards or speak to your supervisor
Using the correct plot style table will ensure that your printed drawing accurately represents the desired colors and lineweights.
Step 4: Preview and Print
Before printing your drawing, it’s always a good idea to preview it to ensure that everything looks as expected. To preview and print your drawing, follow these steps:
- In the “Plot” dialog box, click on the “Preview” button
- This will display a preview of your drawing
- Take a moment to review the preview and make any necessary adjustments
- Once you are satisfied with the preview, click on the “OK” button to proceed with printing
After clicking “OK,” your drawing will be sent to the printer, and you can now sit back and relax while your accurately scaled drawing is printed.
In Conclusion
Printing to scale with AutoCAD doesn’t have to be daunting. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that your drawings are printed accurately and to the desired scale. Remember to set the scale, adjust the plot area, choose the right plot style table, and preview before printing. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to print your AutoCAD drawings to scale hassle-free!