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Create a Symbol

Available in: FREE, Plus, Pro Architectural

Commonly used items are saved as symbols in CAD systems to speed up drawing production. Any Draft it drawing file can be used as a symbol. Simply use the Insert a symbol button example image Insert Symbol command to select an existing drawing to insert onto the current drawing. This is quite straightforward and works well. However if the symbol you want to create is only part of an existing design and not the complete drawing proceed as follows based on your version.

In Draft it Pro and Draft it Architectural simply select the Items you want in the new symbol, pick select Build Symbol build symbol button button. Set the insertion origin point enter a name in the dialog box and click OK.

Draft it Plus use the following method:-

1. Open  the drawing containing the geometry you want to create a symbol from.

2. Select the Items you want in the new symbol.

3. Copy these items to the clipboard using the Copy copy button command from or use the shortcut keys control button+C.

4. Create a New (blank) drawing.

5. Use the Paste paste button >command or use the shortcut keys control button+V.

6. The entities copied to the clipboard will now be attached to the cursor, click into place on the drawing.

7. Use the Set Insertion Origin set insertion origin button command and pick an appropriate insertion point using any of the snaps and input options. This is the point that the cursor will be attached to when placing the symbol onto another drawing.

At this stage you can also add further Insertion Points set insertion origin button at key positions, these can be used as alternative points when inserting the symbol.

8. Select Save save button button and enter a name for the symbol in the dialog box, then click on the 'Save' button.

9. Select Close close button to close the new symbol drawing.

The new symbol is ready to use in other drawings with the insert symbol button Insert Symbol command.

For more help on symbols see Insertion Origin, Insert Symbol and Modifying/Moving a Symbol.

Any questions?

Perhaps you need help deciding which of our CAD systems is right for you, or maybe you need to chat with us about our bespoke development service.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch. The Draft it team is dedicated to ensuring you get the best design experience on the market. Whatever you need - call us, email us – we’re here to help.