AutoCAD

How to Resize an Object in AutoCAD?

Understanding Object Resizing in AutoCAD

To effectively resize objects in AutoCAD, you can use various tools and commands tailored for both 2D and 3D elements. The resizing process may differ slightly depending on the type of object you are manipulating—whether it’s a block, a drawing element, or a 3D model. Below are detailed methods for resizing different types of objects in AutoCAD 2025.

Steps to Resize a Block

1. Activate the Select Objects tool from the toolbar.

2. Click on the block you wish to resize, ensuring it is highlighted.

3. Right-click and select the Open Block Editor.

4. Locate the General panel within the CAD Block Specification dialog.

5. Adjust the Height Factor and Width Factor to 1 within the Size section. This maintains the current proportions while allowing resizing to occur.

6. Confirm your changes by clicking OK to exit the dialog box.

Modifying Dimensions in AutoCAD

1. Access the Home tab and navigate to the Annotation panel. Click on Dimension Style.

2. In the Dimension Style Manager, choose the dimension style you want to alter and click on Modify.

3. Switch to the Fit tab within the Modify Dimension Style dialog and locate the Scale for Dimension Features section.

4. Input your desired scale value to adjust the size of the dimensions accordingly.

5. Click OK to apply the changes, then close the Dimension Style Manager.

Resizing 3D Objects

1. From the Home tab, choose Modify and then select 3D Scale.

2. After selecting the object or its subcomponents, press Enter to confirm your selection.

3. You may either drag the mouse to resize directly or input a specific scale factor, depending on your requirements.

Changing Drawing Units

1. Open the Dimension Style Manager by typing DIMSTY in the command line.

2. Select the currently active dimension style and click Modify.

3. Navigate to the Primary Units tab.

4. Set the Unit Format to Decimal, specifying the desired precision for your dimensions.

5. Add the inch symbol (“) in the Suffix box if you want to denote dimensions in inches.

6. Complete the changes by clicking OK.

Resizing a Drawing Object

1. Use the pointer tool in the Drawing toolbar to select the object you intend to resize.

2. Click and hold on one of the handle grips surrounding the object.

3. While holding down the mouse button, drag the handle to adjust the size to your preference.

4. Release the mouse button once you achieve the desired dimension.

Scaling Layouts in AutoCAD

1. Identify the layout viewport you wish to modify and select it.

2. Right-click and choose Properties.

3. If the viewport is locked, change this setting to No.

4. In the Properties palette, locate Standard Scale and select a new scale appropriate for your project.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What key command do I use to access the Block Editor in AutoCAD?
To enter the Block Editor, select the block you want to edit, right-click, and choose Block Editor from the context menu.

2. How can I convert my dimension settings to display in feet?
Access the Dimension Style Manager, modify the active dimension style, and on the Primary Units tab, set the Unit Format to Decimal and adjust the precision as needed.

3. What should I do if my drawing appears too small in AutoCAD?
Begin by setting your limits through the command LIMITS, followed by using the zoom command Z then A to adjust your view appropriately.

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.