AutoCAD

How To Get Tree In AutoCAD?

How to Insert a Tree in AutoCAD

Inserting trees in AutoCAD can enhance your designs, making them more visually appealing and realistic. Follow these detailed steps to incorporate trees into your AutoCAD project, whether you are aiming for 2D representations or more complex 3D models.

Adding Trees in 2D

  1. Access the Design Center:

    • Open your AutoCAD file.
    • Navigate to the Design Center by clicking on the ‘View’ tab on the ribbon and selecting the ‘Palettes’ panel.
  2. Find Tree Blocks:

    • Expand the folder that contains your desired blocks. Look for a folder specifically for nature or landscaping, as these often contain tree symbols.
  3. Insert the Tree Block:

    • Drag and drop the tree block from the Design Center directly into your drawing area.
    • You may also use the ‘Insert’ command from the Home tab and choose the tree block from your list.
  4. Scale and Position:
    • After placing the tree, right-click and select ‘Properties’ to adjust its size, position, and other attributes as necessary. This is important to match the scale of your overall design.

Creating a 3D Tree

  1. Design the Trunk:

    • Start by creating a polyline that represents the profile of your tree trunk.
    • Then, navigate to the Surfaces toolbar and select the option to create a 3D form. Choose the trunk’s polyline as your path and select the axis along which to extrude.
  2. Construct the Canopy:

    • Use the same Surfaces toolbar to create the canopy. Draw a shape that mimics the tree’s leafy structure using polygons or ellipses.
    • Use the ‘Revolve’ or ‘Sweep’ command to give the canopy depth and a more realistic appearance.
  3. Finalize the Tree:
    • Position the trunk and canopy appropriately, ensuring they align correctly. You may need to adjust the height and width to achieve the desired look.

Scaling Trees in Your Design

  1. Use the Scale Command:

    • Select the trees you wish to scale, type the command SCALE, and press Enter.
    • When prompted, designate a base point for scaling, then specify the reference length. For example, if your tree is currently 3 units tall and you wish to scale it to 5, you would input these measurements.
  2. Refine Size for Consistency:
    • If your design has multiple trees, use the same scaling factor for each to maintain visual consistency across your project.

Importing Tree Blocks from External Sources

  1. Open a New Drawing or Existing File:

    • Start with a new AutoCAD file or an existing one where you want to add trees.
  2. Importing Blocks:

    • Click the Insert tab and select Import AutoCAD Block.
    • Browse to your library of blocks or downloaded tree block files, and select the specific dwg file containing the blocks.
  3. Choose and Insert:
    • In the Import Block dialog, select the tree block you wish to insert.
    • Make necessary adjustments to scale and placement upon insertion.

FAQ

1. Can AutoCAD come with preloaded tree blocks?
AutoCAD does not come with a default set of tree blocks. However, various resources and manufacturers provide libraries that can be imported for use. These may be free or available for purchase.

2. How do I draw a custom tree if I can’t find a suitable block?
You can create a tree manually by drawing its trunk and branches using polylines and circles for foliage. Utilize 3D commands to extrude or rotate these shapes for a more realistic appearance.

3. Are there any online resources for tree graphics in AutoCAD?
Yes, many websites and forums offer free or paid blocks. Websites such as AutoCAD’s official resource page, or various architectural design sites, may have downloadable content including tree graphics suitable for your designs.

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.