AutoCAD

How to Insert New Font in AutoCAD?

Guide to Inserting New Fonts in AutoCAD

Overview of AutoCAD Fonts

When working in AutoCAD, the use of fonts is crucial for creating clear and legible design documents. Various font types, including Standard SHX and TrueType (TTF), are available, allowing users to customize text as needed for different projects.

Step 1: Accessing the Control Panel

  1. On your computer, navigate to the Start menu.
  2. Choose Settings from the dropdown.
  3. Click on Control Panel to open the system settings.

Step 2: Installing TrueType Fonts

  1. Find and select the Fonts folder within the Control Panel.
  2. In the top menu bar, find File and select Install New Font.
  3. You’ll now see a dialog box prompting you to select the folder where your new font files are stored.
  4. Browse to locate the desired TTF font file. Once located, the fonts will populate in the dialog.
  5. Click on the font you wish to add (making sure it is a TrueType font) and hit OK to complete the installation.

Step 3: Locating Fonts

Fonts are typically stored in specific directories on your system. AutoCAD will automatically detect fonts located in the same folder as the DWG file currently in use. For standard SHX fonts, check the following default path:

C:\Program Files\Autodesk\AutoCAD 2025\Fonts

Step 4: Using Hindi Fonts

For users needing to install Hindi fonts, utilize the MTEDIT command:

  1. Select the text you wish to modify.
  2. Change the font to one that begins with the prefix “@” to ensure proper translation appears in your design.

Step 5: Modifying Text Styles

To create or modify text styles, follow these steps:

  1. Navigate to the Home tab in AutoCAD.
  2. In the Annotation panel, click on Text Style.
  3. In the Text Style dialog, click New to create a new style, then input a name for it.
  4. Choose your desired font from the Font Name dropdown.
  5. Adjust settings such as size, oblique angle, character spacing, and annotative properties according to your needs.

Standard Fonts for AutoCAD

While there are several fonts available, a commonly agreed standard is using ROMANS for standard text and dimensions. For bold items like drawing titles and stamps, ROMAND is recommended.

Converting Fonts

If you have TTF files you need in SHX format:

  1. Place the TTF file in a designated folder (for example, C:\testfile.ttf).
  2. Open the Command Prompt via the Start menu.
  3. Type the command cd C:\test to navigate to your font’s folder.
  4. Executing this command will allow you to access and convert the TTF as needed.

Understanding Font Types

  • SHX Files: Contain compiled font data and are specific to AutoCAD.
  • TrueType Fonts (TTF): Widely used fonts that provide high-quality text display across various applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use any font with AutoCAD?
Not all fonts are compatible. Make sure to use either SHX or TrueType fonts to maintain proper function and appearance within AutoCAD.

Q2: How do I check if my font is installed correctly?
Open the Text Style dialog in AutoCAD and see if your newly installed font appears in the list. If it does, you can use it in your drawings.

Q3: Is there a preferred font size for dimensions in AutoCAD?
There isn’t a fixed size, but it’s recommended to keep the font size consistent with your overall drawing scale to ensure readability across the design.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.