AutoCAD

How To Change The Name Of A Block In AutoCAD?

Steps to Change the Name of a Block in AutoCAD

Changing the name of a block in AutoCAD is a straightforward process that requires you to use the RENAME command. This guide provides detailed steps to help you through the process in AutoCAD 2025.

Step 1: Access the RENAME Command

To begin renaming a block, type RENAME directly into the command line. This command is not found on the ribbon, so manual input is necessary.

Step 2: Open the RENAME Dialog Box

Once you have entered the RENAME command, the RENAME dialog box will appear on your screen. This interface allows you to manage various named objects within your drawing.

Step 3: Select the Object Type

On the left side of the dialog box, you will see a list of object types. Click on the category labeled “Blocks.” This action will filter the displayed objects to only show blocks in your drawing.

Step 4: Choose the Block to Rename

On the right side of the dialog box, you will find a list of all blocks that have been defined in your drawing. Scroll through this list and click on the specific block name that you wish to change.

Step 5: Enter the New Name

With your desired block selected, locate the "Rename To" text box. Here, you can type the new name that you want to assign to the block. Ensure that the new name adheres to any naming conventions you may have in your project.

Step 6: Confirm the Changes

After entering the new name, click the OK button to apply your changes. The block will now be renamed in your drawing, and any instances of this block will refer to its new name.

Copying and Renaming a Block in AutoCAD

If you want to create a duplicate of a block while also changing its name, follow these steps:

  1. Place an instance of the block you wish to copy in your drawing.
  2. Select this instance and right-click with your mouse. From the context menu that appears, choose the option labeled "Copy Block Definition and Assign."
  3. A dialog box will pop up where you can specify a new name for the duplicated block.
  4. Once you have entered the new name, click the OK button to finalize the process.

Renaming Multiple Blocks

To rename more than one block at the same time, use the following method:

  1. Type RENAME in the command line to bring up the RENAME dialog box.
  2. Click on the format option labeled "Rename" to access multiple rename functions.
  3. Select all the blocks you wish to rename from the list and either use batch functions to rename all at once or process them individually by repeating the earlier steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it possible to rename a block that’s already inserted in multiple locations?
Yes, renaming a block will change its name across all instances in your drawing. Ensure that you want this uniform change before proceeding.

2. What should I do if I want to revert back to the old name?
You can rename the block again using the same steps outlined above to revert it to its original name, provided you remember the name.

3. Can I rename blocks in different drawing files simultaneously?
No, you can only rename blocks within the active drawing file at one time. Each drawing file operates independently in AutoCAD.

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.