AutoCAD

How to Use Flip Command in AutoCAD?

Overview of the Flip Command in AutoCAD

The Flip command in AutoCAD is a useful feature that allows users to create a mirrored version of selected objects on the canvas. This command is particularly helpful for replicating parts of drawings symmetrically without altering the original, facilitating design efficiency and accuracy.

Step-by-step Guide to Using the Flip Command

Step 1: Start AutoCAD

Launch the AutoCAD application (2025 version) on your computer. Ensure that your workspace is set up with the necessary palettes and command lines visible for ease of access.

Step 2: Select the Objects

  1. Identify the objects you need to flip.
  2. Use the selection tool to click and drag around the objects or click on them individually while holding the Shift key to select multiple items.

Step 3: Access the Mirror Command

  1. Type MIRROR in the command line and press Enter.
  2. Alternatively, you can find the command in the Modify panel on the Home tab in the Ribbon.

Step 4: Specify the Mirror Line

  1. After initiating the Mirror command, you need to specify the mirror line. Click two points on your canvas to define the line along which the objects will be flipped.
  2. You can choose any two points to establish a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal mirror line based on your needs.

Step 5: Decide on Duplication

Once you’ve defined the mirror line, AutoCAD will prompt you to determine whether you want to keep the original objects or remove them.

  • If you choose Yes, the original objects will be deleted, leaving only the flipped version.
  • If you choose No, both the original and the flipped versions will remain on your canvas, which can be useful for comparison or further modifications.

Step 6: Review and Edit

After completing the flip action:

  1. Review the flipped objects to ensure they appear as desired.
  2. If needed, you can use other modify commands to adjust their position, size, or attributes.

FAQs

What happens when I flip text objects in AutoCAD?
Text objects remain unchanged in their orientation when flipped using the Mirror command. This means that the text will not invert or change direction.

Can I flip dimensions in AutoCAD?
Dimensions are also not affected by the Mirror command; they maintain their original orientation and placement, so you may need to adjust them separately after flipping other objects.

Is there a shortcut for the Mirror command?
Yes, you can quickly access the Mirror command by typing MI at the command prompt. This serves as a convenient shortcut to enhance your workflow 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.