How to Use Stretch AutoCAD?

Understanding the Stretch Command in AutoCAD

The Stretch command in AutoCAD is a powerful tool that allows users to manipulate specific portions of objects within a drawing. Rather than moving entire objects, Stretch lets you modify only the vertices or endpoints within a selected area, providing flexibility in design.

How to Execute the Stretch Command

1. Activate the Command:

   • Navigate to the Home Tab on the ribbon and click on the Modify Panel. Then, select the Stretch command icon. Alternatively, you can type STRETCH into the command line and press Enter.

2. Select the Objects:

   • You can choose objects by using a crossing window selection. This requires that the selection box encloses the vertices or endpoints you wish to stretch. Ensure at least one vertex or endpoint is included in your selection.

3. Define the Stretch Area:

   • After selecting the objects, you will be prompted to specify a base point. This point serves as a reference for how far you want to stretch the selected parts. Click to establish this point.

4. Specify the Displacement:

   • Follow up by indicating a second point or entering a distance in either Cartesian, polar, cylindrical, or spherical coordinates. This will determine how much the selected vertices move.

Stretching a Line in AutoCAD

To stretch a line or multiple lines, follow these steps:

1. Initiate the Stretch Command:

   • As detailed earlier, type STRETCH or click the command from the Modify panel.

2. Select Lines:

   • Use a crossing selection to encompass the vertices of lines you want to modify.

3. Set Reference Point:

   • Click to choose the base point as a reference for the stretch.

4. Move to Desired Position:

   • Drag your cursor to stretch the selected line or type a specific measurement and press Enter.

Differences Between Stretch and Lengthen

While both commands can alter the length of objects, they work differently. The STRETCH command allows for the repositioning of interconnected components, thus providing versatility in modifying multiple elements simultaneously. Conversely, the LENGTHEN command focuses primarily on increasing the length of individual objects without impacting other connected elements.

Stretching an Entire Drawing

If you need to stretch an entire drawing, follow this procedure:

1. Select the Modify Panel:

   • Click on the Stretch option within the Home Tab.

2. Use a Crossing Window:

   • Ensure your selection captures at least one vertex or endpoint of the objects you want to modify.

3. Input Displacement:

   • After selection, enter the distance or direction of the stretch to relocate the entire selected area efficiently.

Limitations of the Stretch Command

Certain elements in AutoCAD cannot be stretched. For instance, objects such as blocks, circles, and ellipses can only be moved and not stretched when selected either individually or completely within a window. It is crucial to remember this limitation to avoid frustration during editing.

Stretching Multiple Lines

For stretching multiple lines in a drawing:

1. Select Multiple Objects:

   • Click on the lines to choose them.

2. Select Grips:

   • Hold down the Shift key and click on the specific grips you want to modify.

3. Choose a Base Grip:

   • After highlighting the grips, click one to set it as the base point.

4. Move the Grips:

   • Drag the selected grips to stretch multiple lines at once or enter a specific distance if precise measurements are needed.

Performing 3D Stretches in AutoCAD

To stretch 3D solids:

1. Activate the Stretch Command:

   • Use the same method as stated previously.

2. Select 3D Objects:

   • Create a crossing window or selection box around the 3D objects you intend to stretch.

3. Indicate Displacement:

   • Right-click after selection, and enter a distance or use your mouse to visually reference the stretch based on existing dimensions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I stretch circles or blocks using the Stretch command?
No, circles and blocks are treated as individual objects and cannot be stretched. They can only be moved.

2. How do I revert an unintended stretch?
You can undo the stretch by using the UNDO command immediately after the change, which will revert the last action.

3. Are there alternatives to the Stretch command for modifying objects?
Yes, commands like LENGTHEN and MOVE can be used in conjunction to make adjustments on dimensions and locations but with different effects than Stretch.