How To Create Linetype In AutoCAD 2018

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Custom Linetype in AutoCAD 2025

Accessing the Linetype Creation Tool

1. Open AutoCAD 2025: Launch the application on your computer.
2. Navigate to the Express Tools: Click on the Express tab, then select Tools and choose Make Linetype from the dropdown menu.

Defining Your Linetype

1. Specify a File Name: When prompted, enter the desired name for your new linetype file. Click Save to continue.
2. Enter the Linetype Name: Provide a unique name for your linetype in the dialog box that appears. Press Enter to confirm.
3. Add a Description (Optional): You can input a brief description of the linetype you’re creating for future reference. Hit Enter once you’re done.
4. Set Up Points: Click to designate the starting and ending points which will define your linetype’s appearance.

Customizing the Linetype Characteristics

1. Create a LIN File: Use the command line by typing -linetype and pressing Enter. This opens the command interface for linetype manipulation.
2. Choose to Create: Input c and press Enter.
3. Assign a Name: Type the name you want for the new linetype and hit Enter again.
4. Select or Create a File: A dialog box will open, allowing you to choose an existing LIN file or to enter a new name for it.

Incorporating Text into Linetypes

1. Start with a Basic Linetype: First, create a simple linetype as a basis for your custom design.
2. Insert the Text Descriptor: Format the text character descriptor to be included within your linetype pattern, following this structure:
   • ["text", text_style_name, scale, rotation, xoffset, yoffset].

Finalizing Your Linetype

1. Loading the Linetype: Once you have defined your linetype, go back to the Linetype Manager. Click on Load, then choose File.
2. Select Your LIN File: Browse to the LIN file you just created, select it, and click Open.
3. Assign the Linetype: To apply the linetype, select the objects you want to modify. Right-click and choose Properties from the context menu. In the Properties palette, find Linetype, choose your created linetype from the dropdown, and apply it.

FAQs

How do I edit an existing linetype in AutoCAD?
To edit a linetype that already exists, simply select the linetype file in the Linetype Manager. You can modify parameters such as the text, scale, and pattern and then save the changes.

What steps should I follow to add a new linetype to my project?
First, make sure to create your linetype file using the steps outlined above. After creating it, use the Load function in the Linetype Manager to import the new linetype into your current drawing.

Can I export a custom linetype for use in other projects?
Absolutely. You can export a custom linetype by using the command line; type LINOUT, press Enter, and a LIN file will be generated in the same folder as your current project, ready for use in other drawings.