How to Create and Edit Polylines in AutoCAD

Step 1: Create a Polyline

1. Open your CAD software: Make sure you have your drawing workspace set up.
2. Activate the Polyline Tool:
   • In AutoCAD: Type PLINE in the command bar and hit Enter or find the Polyline tool in the toolbar or ribbon.
   • In other software: Look for the Polyline or Line tool under drawing tools.
3. Start the Polyline: Click the point where you want to start your polyline. This will be the first vertex.
4. Close the Polyline (optional): Type C (for “close”) and hit Enter after you’ve created the last segment to close the polyline.
5. Finish the Polyline: After you’ve completed the desired segments, press Enter to finish the polyline.

Step 2: Edit a Polyline

Common Editing Techniques

• Stretch a Polyline: Use the STRETCH command in AutoCAD to stretch a polyline segment.
• Change the Shape or Segments: Use the Move or Add Vertex tools to adjust the polyline shape.
• Convert Line Segments to Arcs: Use the PEDIT command to convert lines to arcs.
• Add New Vertices: Use the PEDIT command and choose Add Vertex to add new points along the polyline.
• Delete or Remove a Segment: Right-click and choose Remove Vertex or use the Delete Segment tool.
• Join Multiple Lines into a Polyline: Use the PEDIT command and the Join option to connect multiple lines into one polyline.
• Offset a Polyline: Use the OFFSET command to create a parallel polyline at a specified distance.

Step 3: Advanced Edits

Additional Polyline Editing Features

• Fillet or Chamfer Polyline Segments: Use the FILLET or CHAMFER commands to create rounded or beveled corners.
• Convert Polyline to Region: Use the REGION command to convert a closed polyline to a region for hatching or solid fills.
• Split a Polyline: Use the BREAK command to break the polyline at specific points.

Step 4: Save and Finalize Your Work

1. Save Your Drawing: After making all the desired edits, save your drawing file.
2. Check Polyline Integrity: Use the AUDIT or CHECK command to ensure the polyline is free of errors.
3. Export or Print: Once everything is in place, export or print your drawing as needed.