How to Draw Arrow in AutoCAD 2014

Steps to Draw an Arrow in AutoCAD 2025

Understanding Arrow Design

Before you begin the drawing process, visualize the style of arrow you want to create. It’s important to have a clear idea regarding the shape and size as this will guide you through the creation process within AutoCAD.

Using the Leader Command

1. Access the Command Prompt: Type LEADER into the command line. This command creates a leader line that includes an arrowhead.
2. Location Selection: Click in your drawing area to define the start point of your leader line.
3. Drawing the Leader: Drag the mouse to where the arrow should point. After reaching your desired location, click to place the endpoint.
4. Finalize the Arrowhead: To conclude the command, either press Enter or right-click and select the appropriate option that suits your drawing.

Adding Arrowheads to Lines

If you want an arrowhead at the end of an existing line, follow these steps:

1. Select the Line: Click on the line where you want to add an arrowhead.
2. Navigate to the Arrowhead Settings: Go to the "Format" menu and select "Dimension Style."
3. Modify Dimension Style: In the Dimension Style Manager, choose the style you wish to adjust and click the "Modify" button.
4. Choose Arrowhead Type: In the Symbols and Arrows tab, under the Arrowheads section, select the desired arrowhead type for both the start and end.

Creating a Curved Arrow

For a more complex design like a curved arrow, perform the following:

1. Open the Arc Tool: Access this by going to the Drafting tab, then in the Draw panel, click on the Arc drop-down menu.
2. Determine Arc Characteristics: You’ll need to specify several parameters including: starting point, center, and endpoint or radius based on the type of arc you wish to create.
3. Finish the Drawing: Complete the arc by clicking at the respective points or inputting values directly into the command line.

Drawing a North Arrow

To add directional guidance in your layout:

1. Switch to Paper Space: Ensure you are working in paper space in your layout or setting.
2. Access the North Arrow Tool: Navigate to the Layout Tools tab and click on the North Arrow option.
3. Select and Place the North Arrow: Choose your preferred north arrow style from the list provided and click in the viewport to place it.

Creating Enhanced Leader Arrows

1. Modify Arrow Size: Go to the Format menu and click on "Dimension Style."
2. Access the Current Dimension Style: In the Dimension Style Manager, alter the selected style by clicking "Modify."
3. Adjust Arrow Size: On the Symbols and Arrows tab, increase the size of the arrows as needed for visibility and aesthetic preferences.

Drawing a 3D Arrow

To create arrows with a three-dimensional appearance, follow these steps:

1. Select the Arc Tool for 3D: Click on "Home," navigate to the Draw panel, and find the Arc drop-down.
2. Specify 3D Points: Click to establish your start point in 3D space, followed by the center point, and finally the endpoint.
3. Finalize the Shape: Once these points are placed, the arc forms a 3D curve that can act as an arrow indication.

FAQs

1. How can I make changes to existing arrows in AutoCAD?
Modifying existing arrows involves selecting the arrow or leader line, accessing the Dimension Style settings, and adjusting arrowhead types and sizes.

2. Can I use custom arrow styles in AutoCAD?
Yes, AutoCAD allows for the use of custom arrow styles. You can create a block representing your arrowhead and assign it as a custom arrowhead in the Dimension Style settings.

3. What tools in AutoCAD assist with precise arrow drawing?
Tools such as Snap, Grid, and Ortho mode can be very beneficial when aiming for precise placements and angles while drawing arrows in AutoCAD.