How can you use layering to improve 2D CAD drafting?

1 What is layering?

Layering is a technique that lets you divide your 2D CAD drawing into multiple levels or categories, each with its own name and attributes. For example, you can create layers for different types of objects, such as walls, doors, windows, furniture, dimensions, notes, and so on. You can also create layers for different phases or stages of your project, such as existing, proposed, demolition, or construction. By using layers, you can easily switch between different views of your drawing, hide or show certain elements, and apply consistent formatting and standards.

2 Why use layering?

Layering has many benefits for 2D CAD drafting, such as improving readability and clarity by reducing clutter, enhancing accuracy and quality by avoiding overlapping or conflicting elements, facilitating editing and modification of the drawing, and simplifying collaboration and communication with other stakeholders. Layering allows you to select, move, copy, delete, or change the properties of specific elements without affecting others. Additionally, it enables you to share, print, or export different versions or aspects of your drawing according to the needs and preferences of other stakeholders.

3 How to create layers?

To create layers in your 2D CAD software, you need to access the layer manager or dialog box, where you can add, delete, rename, or modify layers. Depending on your software, there may be different options and tools available to manage your layers, however the basic steps remain the same. Start by clicking on the layer icon or menu and selecting the layer manager or dialog box option. Then click on the new layer button or command and enter a name for your layer; choose one that is descriptive, concise, and consistent with your drafting standards or conventions. Assign a color, line type, line weight, and other properties to your layer - either use the default settings or customize them according to your design criteria or preferences. Repeat this process for each layer you want to create. Additionally, you can copy, paste, or delete existing layers if needed. Finally, click on the OK or Apply button to save your changes and close the layer manager or dialog box.

4 How to use layers?

Once you have created your layers, you can use them to organize and control your drawing elements. To do that, you need to set the current layer by clicking on the layer name in the layer manager or dialog box, or by using a shortcut or command in your software. Then, you can use the drawing or editing tools in your software to create or modify elements on the current layer. Additionally, you can move or copy elements from other layers to the current layer if needed, and change the layer of existing elements by selecting them and using the properties or layer option in your software. Lastly, you can control the visibility of layers by using the on/off, freeze/thaw, or lock/unlock options in the layer manager or dialog box. Furthermore, you can use the layer isolate or layer previous commands to show or restore only the layers you want to see.

5 How to follow layering standards?

Layering standards are guidelines or rules that define how to name, format, and use layers in 2D CAD drafting. These standards help to ensure consistency, compatibility, and efficiency among different drafters, projects, and software. There are industry standards such as the AIA CAD Layer Guidelines, the National CAD Standard, and the ISO 13567. Company standards are specific or customized standards like the US Army Corps of Engineers CAD Standards, the Autodesk Civil 3D Style Guide, and the Bentley MicroStation Standards. Project standards are special or unique standards like the London Crossrail CAD Standards, the Sydney Opera House CAD Standards, and the Burj Khalifa CAD Standards. To follow layering standards, you need to identify the applicable ones for your project or task, obtain or create the standard layer names and properties, apply or assign them to your drawing elements, and check or verify their compliance with the standards. You may need to use various tools in your software such as rename, match, audit, purge, or check to ensure accuracy.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?