How to Set Default Global Width of Polyline in AutoCAD?

Setting the Default Global Width of Polylines in AutoCAD

Polylines are essential elements in AutoCAD, enabling users to create complex shapes using a single object. To maintain consistency in your drawings, it’s important to establish a default global width for these polylines. Below are detailed steps to help you set this default width, ensuring your design work remains efficient.

Understanding Global Width in Polylines

Global width refers to the thickness applied uniformly across all segments of a polyline. By adjusting this setting, you can enhance the visibility and aesthetic of your drawings.

Step-by-Step Guide to Set Default Global Width

1. Open AutoCAD 2025:
   Launch AutoCAD on your computer and open the drawing file where you intend to work.

2. Access the Properties Palette:
   If the Properties palette is not visible, activate it by typing PROPERTIES in the command line and hitting Enter. This panel allows you to modify various attributes of selected objects.

3. Select a Polyline:
   Click on any existing polyline in your drawing. This action populates the Properties palette with settings relevant to the polyline.

4. Modify the Global Width:

   • In the Properties palette, locate the ‘Global Width’ field.
   • Input your desired width (e.g., 0.25) to set this as the new default for the selected polyline.

5. Change Global Width for Multiple Polylines:
   To alter the global width of several polylines simultaneously:

   • Type QSELECT in the command line and hit Enter.
   • In the QSELECT dialog, choose ‘Polyline’ as the Object Type.
   • Set the Operator to ‘Not Equal to’ and enter ‘0’ in the Value field.
   • Click OK to select all polylines with a non-zero global width.
   • Now, return to the Properties palette and adjust the ‘Global Width’ to your preferred thickness.
6. Confirm Changes:
   After modifying the width, select different polylines to ensure the changes have been applied consistently across your drawing.

Alternative Method Using the Command Line

For users who prefer command-line inputs, follow these steps:

1. Activate PEDIT Command:
   Type PEDIT and press Enter. This command is used to edit polylines.

2. Choose Multiple Selection:
   When prompted, type M for multiple selection and hit Enter.

3. Select the Polylines:
   Click on each polyline you want to edit and press Enter once finished.

4. Convert Lines and Arcs to Polylines:
   If necessary, type Y to convert selected line segments to polylines, then follow the prompts.

5. Specify the Width:
   Enter W to adjust the polyline width and input the desired value.

6. Exit the Command:
   Press Esc to exit, finalizing your adjustments.

Additional Adjustments for Line Thickness

If you find that your polylines still do not appear as intended, check the following settings:

• Ensure that your lineweight settings are appropriate by navigating to the Lineweight Control area in your workspace.
• Confirm that the CELWEIGHT variable is set correctly to avoid inconsistencies with layer thickness.

FAQ

How do I check the current global width of a polyline?
Select the polyline and navigate to the Properties palette; the current Global Width will be listed there.

Can I change the global width after I’ve drawn the polylines?
Yes, you can modify the global width at any time using the steps outlined above for single or multiple polylines.

What if I want to revert to the default settings?
To reset the global width to zero, simply select the polyline and set the Global Width property to 0 in the Properties palette. This will remove any thickness from the selected polylines.