Steps to Create a Tool Palette in AutoCAD 2018
Creating a tool palette in AutoCAD 2018 allows users to organize their frequently used tools and resources for easier access. Follow these detailed steps to set up a new tool palette:
Step 1: Access the DesignCenter
- Open AutoCAD and navigate to the View tab.
- In the Palettes panel, select DesignCenter. This opens the DesignCenter window where various resources can be found.
Step 2: Create a New Tool Palette
- Within the DesignCenter, locate and right-click on an item such as a block, drawing, or hatch in the tree view.
- From the context menu, click on Create Tool Palette. This action initiates the creation of a new palette populated with the selected item.
Step 3: Add Tools to the Palette
There are multiple methods for adding tools to your palette:
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From Drawings: Drag existing tools or blocks directly from your current drawing into the new palette.
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From DesignCenter: Drag additional blocks, drawings, or hatches from the DesignCenter into your palette to enrich its contents.
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From Customize Dialog: Access the Customize dialog box, where you can drag toolbar buttons and commands into your tool palette.
- From CUI Editor: Run the CUI command to open the Customize User Interface (CUI) Editor. From there, drag commands from the Command List pane to the palette.
Step 4: Saving Your Palette
Once you’ve added the desired tools, make sure to save your new tool palette:
- Click the Apply button in the CUI Editor to ensure your changes are effective in the AutoCAD workspace.
- Close the CUI Editor once you have finished organizing your toolbox.
Understanding Tool Palette Locations
To find where your tool palettes are stored, follow these steps:
- Open the OPTIONS dialog box from the command line.
- Switch to the Files tab and expand the Tool Palettes File Locations section. The path displayed will indicate where your tool palette files are stored within your AutoCAD profile.
FAQs
1. How do I add newly created blocks to an existing tool palette?
To add blocks to an existing palette, open the Tool Palettes window, right-click on the desired palette tab, and select Add Block. Browse for the block file you want and import it into your selected palette.
2. Is it possible to import a tool palette from another source?
Yes, to import a tool palette, open the Customize window, right-click on a tool, and choose Import. Then locate the .xtp file you wish to import and follow the prompts to add it to your palette list.
3. Can I share my custom tool palette with other users?
Certainly. To share a tool palette, navigate to the Manage tab, select Customization, and then choose Export to save your custom palette. You can then share the exported file with other AutoCAD users, who can import it into their setups.
