How to Create Plot Style in AutoCAD

Creating a Plot Style in AutoCAD

Plot styles in AutoCAD dictate how objects appear when printed, helping to standardize the look of drawings. Here’s a step-by-step guide on creating a plot style to ensure your drawings have the desired appearance when printed.

Step 1: Access the Plot Command

1. Begin by typing PLOT in the command line and press Enter.
2. This action will bring up the Plot dialog box.

Step 2: Expand the Dialog Box

1. Locate the right-facing arrow in the lower right corner of the Plot dialog box. Click it to expand additional options.

Step 3: Create a New Plot Style

1. Find the “Plot Style table (pen assignments)” drop-down menu.
2. Select “New” from this menu to initiate the creation of a new plot style table.

Step 4: Choose the Source for Your Plot Style

1. You will be directed to the “Begin” screen. Here, you need to select the source for your new plot style table, which will typically be either a new table or based on an existing one.

Step 5: Name Your Plot Style Table

1. Specify a name for the new plot style table (for instance, “MY_OFFICE”) in the prompted field.
2. After naming your plot style, it will become available for customization.

Step 6: Customize Your Plot Style

1. Once your new plot style table is created, you can modify it.
2. Select colors and line weights based on your design needs. Save these settings once you are satisfied with your customizations.

Adding a CTB File in AutoCAD

CTB files are essential for color-based plotting. Follow these steps to add or set a CTB file.

Step 1: Open Page Setup Manager

1. Type PAGESETUP in the command line and press Enter to open the Page Setup Manager dialog box.

Step 2: Select Current Layout

1. Choose the current layout from the list.
2. Click on the “Modify” button to access the Page Setup dialog.

Step 3: Choose Your CTB File

1. In the Page Setup dialog, locate the section for the CTB file. You may see options like “monochrome” or other styles.
2. Select your desired CTB file.

Step 4: Edit CTB Settings

1. If required, you’ll have the choice to edit the CTB file.
2. Assign colors and line weights to the desired elements of your drawing.

Understanding Plot Style Types

CTB vs. STB Plot Styles

• CTB (Color Table): Uses color-based plotting where the color of each object determines its printed appearance.
• STB (Named Style Table): Utilizes named styles, allowing individual styles to be applied to layers or specific objects.

FAQs

What if my CTB file is missing?
If a CTB file appears to be missing, ensure that the drawing is set to use the correct plot style format. Sometimes, drawings inadvertently switch to using STB files instead.

Where can I find my plot styles in AutoCAD?
Typically, plot styles are located in:
C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\Autodesk\AutoCAD <version>\<release>\enu\Plotters\Plot Styles. On macOS, you can find them in the Preferences dialog under Application > Printer Support File Path > Plot Style Table Search Path.

How do I add a missing plot style?
To add a missing plot style, open the Plot Style Manager, right-click on your desired plot style file, and select “Open.” Follow the prompts to access the Plot Style Table Editor to create or import the necessary styles.