AutoCAD

How To Change Paper Space Color In AutoCAD?

Steps to Change Paper Space Color in AutoCAD

Changing the background color of paper space in AutoCAD is a straightforward process that enhances visualization and customizes your workspace. Follow these detailed steps to achieve the desired look.

Accessing Options Menu

  1. Open AutoCAD: Launch your AutoCAD application and load your project.
  2. Application Menu: Look for the Application menu located in the upper-left corner of the screen. Click on it to reveal a dropdown menu.
  3. Select Options: From the dropdown list, find and click on the "Options" button to open the Options dialog box.

Modifying Display Settings

  1. Navigate to Display Tab: Within the Options window, switch to the "Display" tab at the top of the dialog.
  2. Color Settings: Click on the "Colors" button to access the Drawing Window Colors settings.

Changing the Color of Paper Space

  1. Choose the Context: In the Drawing Window Colors dialog, locate the Context dropdown menu. Select “Paper Space” or “Sheet/Layout” from the list.
  2. Select Background Options: Within the Interface Element options, choose “Uniform Background” if you want a solid color for the entire layout.
  3. Pick Your Color: Now, select the color you wish to use for the background from the Color dropdown list. You can choose black, white, or any other desired hue.
  4. Apply Changes: After selecting your color, click on the "Apply & Close" button to implement the changes and exit the dialog.

Finalizing the Layout View

  1. Review Layout: Go back to your layout and inspect the background color. Ensure it meets your expectations and reflects your design needs.
  2. Save Settings: Save your project to ensure all settings remain intact for future work.

Adjusting Background for Different Scenarios

Changing to Black Background

  1. Access the Options menu as described above.
  2. Navigate to the Display tab and click Colors.
  3. Choose “Paper Space” or “Sheet/Layout.”
  4. Select “Uniform Background” and change the color to black.
  5. Click Apply & Close to confirm.

Switching to White Background

  1. Open the Options window.
  2. Go to the Display tab and click on Colors.
  3. Select either “Paper Space” or “Sheet/Layout.”
  4. Choose “Uniform Background” and select white or any other light color.
  5. Apply the changes to finalize.

Troubleshooting Black and White Issues

If your paper space appears black and white unexpectedly, it may be due to certain settings:

  • Display Plot Styles: Ensure that the “Display Plot Styles” setting in the Page Setup is unchecked if you want to visualize colors instead of grayscale.
  • Plot Style Configuration: Check if the active plot style is set to monochrome. In the Page Setup Manager, ensure that the appropriate color-dependent plot styles (CTB) are selected.

FAQ

1. Can I customize colors for individual layouts in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can customize colors for each layout by following the same steps for changing paper space colors individually.

2. Why does my AutoCAD layout print in black and white?
This usually occurs due to the selected plot style being set to monochrome. Check the Page Setup settings to modify the plot style.

3. Is it possible to revert back to default colors in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can reset the colors by accessing the Options menu and returning the settings to their original defaults within the Display tab.

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.