AutoCAD

How to Print Multiple Drawings in AutoCAD?

Steps to Print Multiple Drawings in AutoCAD

Printing multiple drawings in AutoCAD can streamline your workflow, especially when dealing with large projects. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve this efficiently.

Accessing the Publish Command

  1. Open AutoCAD: Launch AutoCAD and ensure all the drawings you want to print are open.

  2. Initiate the Publish Command: To begin, type PUBLISH in the command line. Press Enter to execute.

Configure Publish Options

  1. Select PDF Output: In the Publish dialog box, look for the ‘Publish To’ dropdown menu. Select PDF as the output format.

  2. Adjust Publish Options:
    • Click on Publish Options. This will bring up additional settings.
    • Ensure that the Multi-sheet file option is checked. This allows you to create a single PDF file with multiple pages from your selected drawings.
    • Click OK to confirm your settings.

Adding Drawings

  1. Choose Drawings to Print:
    • In the Publish dialog box, you will see a list that may be empty if nothing has been added yet.
    • Click the Add Sheets button. This opens a dialogue for selecting the drawings.
    • Select the desired drawings from the list and click OK. The chosen sheets will now appear in the Publish dialog.

Finalizing the Print Process

  1. Set Additional Settings: Review the settings to ensure everything is configured to your liking. This includes page setup, sizes, and any other specific options related to the print job.

  2. Click Publish: Once you’re satisfied with your selections and settings, click the Publish button to start the printing process. A progress bar will indicate the process as it completes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during publishing, consider the following tips:

  • Ensure your drawings are correctly set up for printing, with no missing elements or layouts.
  • Check that your printer settings are configured properly for PDF output.
  • If you’re working with complex drawings, consider breaking them into smaller batches.

FAQ

1. Can I print drawings without opening them in AutoCAD?

No, all drawings need to be opened in AutoCAD before they can be printed using the Publish command.

2. Is it possible to print in other formats besides PDF?

Yes, AutoCAD offers several output formats, including DWG and DWF, which can be selected in the Publish dialog.

3. What if some drawings do not appear in the selection list?

Verify that those drawings are saved and compatible with AutoCAD 2025. If the issue persists, try closing and reopening AutoCAD.

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.