How to Use Hatch Command in AutoCAD 2018?

Understanding the Hatch Command in AutoCAD 2018

Using the Hatch command in AutoCAD is essential for filling shapes with patterns or solid colors. It enables designers and draughtspeople to visually differentiate areas within a drawing, making complex plans easier to interpret. This guide will walk you through the process of using the Hatch command effectively in AutoCAD 2018.

Accessing the Hatch Command

To begin utilizing the Hatch command, follow these steps:

1. Open your AutoCAD 2018 application.
2. Navigate to the Home tab located at the top of your screen.
3. Look for the Draw panel within the Home tab.
4. Click on the Hatch icon. Alternatively, you can simply type H and press Enter on your keyboard to activate the command directly.

Selecting Hatch Areas

Once you have activated the Hatch command, you need to specify where you want to apply the hatch pattern. There are two primary methods to achieve this:

1. Choose an Enclosed Area:
   • Click inside an area that is completely enclosed by object boundaries.
   • AutoCAD will automatically detect the boundary and apply the hatch within that area.
2. Select Objects as Boundaries:
   • Choose the option to select objects during the hatch command.
   • Use your mouse to click on the objects that form the boundary of the area you want to hatch.

Adding Custom Hatch Patterns

AutoCAD offers various default hatch patterns, but you can also add custom patterns. To do so, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Application menu by clicking the AutoCAD icon in the upper left corner.
2. Click Options to open the Options dialog box.
3. Select the Files tab and find the Support File Search Path section.
4. Click Add to include a new folder where your custom hatch patterns are saved.
5. After adding the folder, click OK to confirm the changes.
6. Now, while using the Hatch command, these custom patterns will appear in your pattern list.

Editing Existing Hatch Patterns

If adjustments to the hatch are required, you can easily edit existing hatch objects:

1. Select the hatch object you wish to edit.
2. The Hatch Editor contextual tab will appear on the Ribbon, showing the current settings of the selected hatch.
3. Make the necessary changes such as modifying the pattern, scale, or angle. You will see a real-time preview of the alterations.
4. Once satisfied with the modifications, click Close Hatch Editor to apply the changes.

Displaying Hatch Boundaries

At times, you may want to visualize the boundaries of existing hatches. To show hatch boundaries:

1. Type HATCHEDIT in the command line and press Enter.
2. Select the hatch for which you want to show boundaries.
3. In the Hatch Edit dialog box, click Recreate Boundary.
4. When prompted, choose the type of boundary objects you want to create (polyline or region).

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of hatch patterns available in AutoCAD?

AutoCAD provides three primary types of hatch patterns: solid fill, patterned fill, and gradient fill. Each type can be customized in terms of color, scale, and transparency to suit your design needs.

How can I change the scale or angle of a hatch pattern?

To modify the scale or angle, select the hatch and open the Hatch Editor contextual tab. Here, you can directly set the desired scale or angle, observing changes in real-time.

Can I remove specific areas of a hatch pattern?

Yes, by double-clicking on the hatch and selecting the Pick Points option, you can choose specific internal areas to eliminate from the hatch fill.