AutoCAD

How To Insert Raster Image In AutoCAD 2020?

Steps to Insert a Raster Image in AutoCAD 2025

Inserting a raster image in AutoCAD can enhance your drawings by adding visual context. Follow the steps below to successfully incorporate a raster image into your AutoCAD project.

Preparing the Image

  1. Open an Image Editor: Start by opening your chosen image using an application such as Microsoft Paint or any other image editing software.

  2. Copy the Image: Utilize the shortcut Ctrl + A to select the entire image, followed by Ctrl + C to copy it to your clipboard.

Accessing Your AutoCAD File

  1. Open the AutoCAD Drawing: Launch AutoCAD and open the file where you intend to insert the raster image.

Using the Paste Special Command

  1. Initiate Paste Special: In the command line at the bottom of the AutoCAD window, type PASTESPEC and press Enter. This command brings up the Paste Special dialog.

  2. Choose Paste Options: In the dialog that appears, select the ‘Paste’ option, followed by ‘Picture (Metafile)’. Click OK to proceed.

  3. Position the Image: A cursor will appear, allowing you to click within the drawing area to place the raster image. Click to set the insertion point.

Alternative Method to Attach a Raster Image

If you prefer to directly attach an image file rather than copying it, follow these additional steps:

  1. Select the Insert Tab: Navigate to the ‘Insert’ tab on the ribbon.

  2. Locate the Attach Command: In the ‘References’ panel, click on ‘Attach’.

  3. Choose the Image File: In the dialog box that opens, browse to locate your image file. Select the desired image and click Open.

  4. Set Insertion Options: You will be prompted to specify the insertion point, scale, and rotation. Modify these settings as needed and click OK.

Managing Image Attributes

  1. Remove Image Borders: To modify the visibility of the image frame, access the ‘Modify’ menu, then the ‘Object’ menu, and choose ‘Image Frame’. Here you can enter 0 to hide boundaries, 1 to show and plot them, and 2 to show them without plotting.

FAQ

Can I insert JPEG or PNG files in AutoCAD?
Yes, AutoCAD supports various raster file formats including JPEG, PNG, and BMP, allowing flexibility in the types of images you can incorporate.

How do I resize a raster image once it’s inserted?
To resize the image, select it and go to the ‘Home’ tab. Click on the ‘Modify’ panel and choose ‘Scale’. Select the image, specify a base point, and enter a scale factor, or drag to adjust the size manually.

Is raster design included in AutoCAD 2025?
Yes, the Raster Design toolset is included, enabling users to edit scanned drawings and convert raster images into DWG objects efficiently.

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.