Understanding the Stretch Command in AutoCAD
Stretching points and objects in AutoCAD is an essential skill for modifying designs efficiently. Here’s how you can stretch multiple points or objects, whether they are 2D or 3D, in AutoCAD 2025.
Stretching Multiple Points
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Select Objects: Begin by choosing the objects you want to stretch. You can do this by clicking on them individually or by using a selection window.
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Highlight Grips: While holding down the Shift key, click on the grips of the objects you wish to include in the stretch operation. This action highlights the grips, indicating they will be involved in the stretch.
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Designate the Base Grip: Release the Shift key and click on one of the grips again. This grip will act as the base point for the stretch. It is crucial to choose this point carefully as it will dictate how the other points will move.
- Move the Points: With the base grip selected, move your mouse to drag the highlighted grips. Click to finalize the new position of the grips.
Stretching Objects in AutoCAD
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Activate the Stretch Tool: Go to the Home tab, locate the Modify panel, and click on the Stretch option. Alternatively, you can type "S" in the command line and press Enter.
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Select Objects: Use a crossing selection to choose the objects you intend to stretch. Ensure that your selection box includes at least one vertex or endpoint of the objects.
- Specify Displacement: After selecting the objects, you can enter a displacement distance. This can be done using Cartesian, polar, cylindrical, or spherical coordinates. Choose the method that suits your design needs.
Creating Stretch Points in AutoCAD
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Open the Block Authoring Palette: Access the Block Authoring palette, then navigate to the Actions tab and select the Stretch action.
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Select the Parameter: Follow the prompts on the command line to choose the parameter you want to associate with the stretch action. Typically, you’ll select the previously defined Distance1 parameter.
- Determine the Parameter Point: Specify the points associated with this action by either picking the relevant grips or entering start and end point coordinates.
Using the Stretch Command for Lines
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Initiate Command: Type "S" or "stretch" in the command prompt and hit Enter.
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Set Base Point: Define the base point for your stretch by clicking on the desired location.
- Specify Displacement: You can either input a precise distance or use your mouse to visually reposition the line to your desired length.
3D Stretching in AutoCAD
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Select Objects: Create a crossing window around the 3D objects you want to modify.
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Right-Click: After making your selection, right-click to access further options.
- Input Distance: You can specify a distance by typing it in or by dragging with your mouse to reference existing objects or points in space.
Stretching Groups in AutoCAD
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Create Selection: Select the group you would like to stretch. You can do this using traditional selection methods like clicking or window selection.
- Utilize the Stretch Command: Apply the stretch command as you would for a single object, ensuring that all parts of the group are captured within the selection.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between the Stretch and Lengthen commands in AutoCAD?
While both commands can extend the length of objects, Stretch allows for repositioning and adjustments to interconnected entities, making it more flexible for complex designs.
2. Can I stretch dynamic blocks in AutoCAD?
Yes, dynamic blocks can be stretched using the Stretch tool, which allows for adjustments based on set values established in the block editor.
3. What selection methods are available for stretching objects?
You can use a crossing window selection or a polygon option. The critical aspect is that the selection must include vertices or endpoints of the objects you wish to modify.
