DraftSight: Inserting References (Xrefs)

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As a new CAD user, I’m always looking for ways to make my drawing process as organized and straightforward as possible. That said, I recently discovered References in DraftSight, which I’ve found to do just that.

References allow you to insert portions of related drawings into each other’s graphics windows, without having to actually include them in each other’s files. They’re especially convenient when you’re working on projects that have multiple illustrators or drafts involved.

More specifically, they not only keep your files from getting too big, but they also simplify your workspace by allowing you to view all of your relevant information in one display window – rather than having to switch back and forth between affiliated drawings. Likewise, by just reloading your references, they’ll always be up to date on their latest saved file version – effortlessly keeping co-drafters informed on each other’s work.

And, the best part is that they’re super easy to insert – just right click on an empty spot in the ribbon and select References. This will open a References tab in the Properties Palette on the right-hand side of your DraftSight window. From there, just select Attach Drawing, located in the upper-left corner of the palette, and select your drawing file of choice.

Lastly, press Open and an Attach Reference settings window will appear, allowing you to specify your Path Type, Reference Type, Position, Scale, and Rotation – which can be altered at any point after insertion as well. And, as always, when you’re satisfied with your entered information – just press OK, and your new Reference will appear in your drawing window!

I hope this post encourages you to insert References in your DraftSight designs for organization and collaboration! Look out for next blog covering how to do more with your References!

Check out the video below to see References at work!

 

Learn more at DraftSight.com!

 

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