How to Make Dotted Line in AutoCAD 2017?

Understanding Dotted Lines in AutoCAD

Dotted lines are an essential part of technical drawings, conveying information about hidden features or boundaries. To create a dotted line in AutoCAD 2017 effectively, follow the step-by-step instructions outlined below.

Step 1: Open Your Drawing

Begin by launching AutoCAD and opening the drawing where you want to create the dotted line. Ensure that you are working in the correct layout or model space as needed.

Step 2: Access the Linetype Manager

1. Type LINETYPE in the command prompt and hit Enter.
2. This action will open the Linetype Manager dialog box.

Step 3: Load the Dotted Linetype

1. In the Linetype Manager, click on the Load button.
2. Scroll through the available linetypes until you find the desired dotted line pattern, often labeled as “DASHED” or “DOTTED.”
3. Select the linetype and click OK to load it into your drawing.

Step 4: Assign the Dotted Linetype to Objects

1. Select the objects that you want to change to a dotted line.
2. Right-click on the selected objects and choose Properties from the context menu to open the Properties palette.
3. In the Properties palette, locate the Linetype option and click the drop-down arrow.
4. From the list that appears, choose the dotted linetype you previously loaded.

Step 5: Modify Linetype Scale (if necessary)

If the dotted line does not appear as expected, you may need to adjust the linetype scale:

1. Type LTSCALE in the command prompt and press Enter.
2. Enter a value that reflects the desired scale for your drawing. If you’re unsure, a value like 1 is a good starting point.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Zoom in on your dotted line to verify its appearance. If it doesn’t display correctly, ensure that your drawing scale is set and that you’re not in a layout view, as this can affect visibility.

Additional Options for Creating Dotted Lines

To create more custom dotted lines or to simplify the process, you might also use specific linestyles defined within your AutoCAD environment or create new linetypes tailored to your specifications.

FAQs

1. How do I change the color of a dotted line in AutoCAD?
To change the color, select the line, right-click, and choose Properties. Under the Color section, you can select a different color from the palette.

2. What should I do if my linetype isn’t showing in the Line Types list?
If a linetype isn’t appearing, ensure it’s loaded properly. Use the Linetype Manager to load it again and double-check if it’s included in the list of available linetypes.

3. Can I convert a solid line into a dotted line easily?
Yes, simply select the solid line, open the Properties palette, and change the Linetype to the desired dotted pattern as illustrated in the steps above.