How to Stretch Distance in AutoCAD?

Understanding Stretching in AutoCAD

Stretching objects in AutoCAD is essential for adjusting their dimensions without creating new geometry. This functionality allows you to manipulate the length of various types of objects including lines, polylines, and 3D solids, ensuring that your designs can be easily modified as needed. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to stretch distances in AutoCAD effectively.

How to Stretch a Line in AutoCAD 2025

1. Activate the “Stretch” command by either clicking the corresponding icon on the Modify panel or typing STRETCH into the command line.
2. Select the line by clicking on it. You will need to use a crossing window selection, which can be created by dragging from left to right around the endpoint of the line you wish to stretch.
3. Once selected, enter the displacement value or leverage your mouse to drag the line to the desired length.

Stretching a Polyline in AutoCAD

1. Choose the polyline you want to adjust.
2. Hover over the grip at the endpoint you wish to extend.
3. Right-click to display options and select either “Stretch” or “Stretch Vertex,” depending on your specific version of AutoCAD.
4. Designate a base point by pressing B and clicking the grip you are handling.
5. Finally, drag the endpoint to the new location or enter a specific distance in the command line.

Stretching Multiple Polylines in AutoCAD

1. Begin by activating the “Stretch” command.
2. Use a crossing selection box to encompass all the polylines you wish to stretch.
3. After making your selection, either move your mouse to stretch the selected shapes or input a precise displacement amount and hit Enter.

Difference Between Stretch and Lengthen Commands

The STRETCH and LENGTHEN commands are often confused due to their similar function of changing lengths. However, STRETCH allows for repositioning and manipulation of connected objects in a more versatile manner, while LENGTHEN focuses on extending or shortening the selected object’s endpoints without affecting adjoining elements.

Using the LENGTHEN Command

1. Select the “Lengthen” tool from the Modify panel in the Home tab.
2. Choose the option for Dynamic Dragging mode by typing dy.
3. Select the object you want to modify.
4. Drag the endpoint closest to the selection to a new location, defining the endpoint’s new position according to your changes.

Stretching 3D Solids in AutoCAD

1. Position your view appropriately using the view controls for a clear perspective.
2. Create a crossing window around the 3D object to encompass it.
3. Right-click and specify the distance you wish to apply to the stretch, or utilize your mouse to adjust its position in real time.

Key Selection Criteria for Stretching Objects

For successful stretching, ensure that you use a crossing selection method, as this allows you to include only the vertices or endpoints needed for adjustments. Simple selections or complete object selections will not function correctly and may simply move those objects rather than stretching them.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I stretch a block using the Stretch command?

No, the Stretch command does not work with blocks directly as it moves the entire block. Instead, you should explode the block first, stretch the individual components, and then create the block again.

2. Is there an alternative way to lengthen a line without using the LENGTHEN command?

Yes, you can use the “Trim” and “Extend” commands to manipulate lines and other objects in a similar manner, allowing for adjustments to start and end points.

3. Does stretching affect the dimensions of text in AutoCAD?

No, stretching commands do not affect text objects. To resize text, you need to utilize the scale command or modify the text properties individually.