How to Make Xref Grey?

Adjusting XREF Color to Grey in AutoCAD

To make an XREF (external reference) appear grey in AutoCAD, you must modify the viewport color settings for the layers associated with the XREF. This approach allows you to maintain the original colors in model space while displaying the XREF in a grey tone when viewed or printed from paper space. Follow the steps below to achieve this effect.

Step 1: Access Paperspace

1. Open your AutoCAD drawing where you have the XREF.
2. Switch to paper space by selecting the layout tab at the bottom of the workspace.

Step 2: Activate the Viewport

1. Click on the viewport where the XREF is displayed to activate it.
2. Make sure that you can see the borders of the viewport highlighted, indicating that it is active.

Step 3: Open Layer Properties

1. Navigate to the "Home" tab on the ribbon.
2. In the "Layers" panel, click on “Layer Properties” to open the Layer Properties Manager.

Step 4: Select XREF Layers

1. In the Layer Properties Manager, locate the layers associated with your XREF.
2. Click to select the layer(s) that you wish to modify.

Step 5: Modify Viewport Color

1. With the desired XREF layer selected, look for the “VP Color” column.
2. Click on the color cell next to “VP Color” for that layer.
3. In the color selection dialog, choose "8" (which corresponds to grey) or another shade of your preference.
4. Confirm your selection by clicking “OK.”

Step 6: Review and Print Settings

1. To ensure that the changes will reflect in your final output, you may need to check the plot settings.
2. Go to “File” > “Print” or “Plot”.
3. Make sure that the option for “Plot transparency” is enabled if required.

Step 7: Save Your Changes

1. After confirming that the XREF appears grey in the viewport as intended, save your drawing.
2. You can now proceed to print or share your drawing as needed, with the XREF displayed in grey.

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FAQ

1. Can I change the color of an XREF in model space?

No, changes made to the viewport color will only affect the display in paper space. Model space will retain the original colors of the XREF.

2. How do I customize the transparency levels for XREFs?

To adjust transparency, access the Layer Properties Manager, select the XREF layer, and modify the "Transparency" value. Make sure you enable the “Plot transparency” setting for it to take effect in the printed output.

3. Why might my XREF still appear in a different color despite changes?

If the XREF does not reflect the changes, check if the “Visretain” setting is set to “1.” This setting helps retain XREF layer settings. Additionally, ensure that there are no other overrides active for the XREF layers in your drawing.