Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
3.4 STEP 3: CREATING LAYERS
What Are Layers?
Let's assume that we have a large number of transparent papers along with
256 colored pens.
Taking care that we do not draw anywhere except on the top of the paper,
we select the red pen and draw the border of the drawing.
Then, we move the second paper to the top, and we draw an architectural
wall plan using the yellow pen.
Next, we move the third paper to the top and we draw the doors using the
green pen. Employing the same procedure we draw windows, furniture,
electrical outlets, hatching, text, dimensioning, etc.
Then, we take all of the papers and look at them at the same time. What do
we see? A full architectural plan!
In AutoCAD we call each paper a layer.
Each layer should have a name, color, linetype, lineweight, and much more
information.
There will be a layer, which will be in all of AutoCAD's drawings. This layer
is 0 (zero). You cannot delete it or rename it.
In order to draw on a layer, you must fi rst make it
current
. Only one layer
will be current at a time.
The objects drawn on a layer will automatically inherit the properties (color,
linetype, lineweight, etc.) of the current layer. Hence, a line in the red layer, with
a dashdot linetype and 0.3 lineweight will have the exact same properties.
By default, the setting of the object's color is = BYLAYER.
By default, the setting of the object's linetype is = BYLAYER.
By default, the setting of the object's lineweight is = BYLAYER.
It is highly recommended to keep these settings intact, as changing them
may lead to creating objects with nonstandard properties.
On the
Ribbon
, make sure you are in the
Home
tab. Using the
Layers
panel, click the
Layer Properties
button.
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The following dialog box will appear:
