Set DIMSTYLE by layer?

Hello everyone,

The only way to change dimensions that I know of is DIMSTYLE. I know how to make new dimensions styles and such, but I am having trouble setting the dimension styles by LAYER.

I currently have a pretty good solution but it would be better if it was automatically set by layer. I just qselect a layer, go to the properties, and change it all at the same time in the end.

Is this possible? Might there be a better way?

If you are wondering why I am mixing dimensions, it's because I send my drawings to several different people and companies, and they only need to work with certain aspects of my drawings.

Thanks to any who help!

Are you just trying to put all your dimensions on the same layer?

I like to put certain dimensions on different layers so I can hide those certain dimensions when I want to. So, I would like to be able to have dimensions on different layers, and have different dimension styles to match those layers..

If that makes sense

So in reply to your question: No. I want dimensions on different layers with different dimension styles for each layer.

Ive got good news and bad news... The good news is this can be done easily using a LISP routine. The bad news is, the version of AutoCAD you use does not allow LISP. There are available extenders\third party addons that will get past that but i have not used or have knowledge of them.. Your solution to use QSELECT is your best option i think..

I was afraid of that.. Thank you very much for your input though.

Good luck. Hopefully someone else here will have a better answer for you.

To the best of my knowledge, your best bet is to create a macro for each layer, that would basically both set the desired dimstyle and layer current, then initiate the applicable dimension command.

Depending on the number of different dimension types you use, and on how many different layers, it may simply be easier to have the macro only set the desired dimstyle and layer, then it's up to you to specify which dimension command. Just my $0.02

Once you have a dim created on the layer you want, drag and drop that onto a tool palette. Do that for the various styles, layers, etc. Change the name on the palette for each one. Now just pick the dim name you need, pick the type of dim, place dim.

I always forget about tool palettes (because of the difficulty in distributing updates); thanks for the reminder, rkent.

Once you have a dim created on the layer you want, drag and drop that onto a tool palette. Do that for the various styles, layers, etc. Change the name on the palette for each one. Now just pick the dim name you need, pick the type of dim, place dim.

Absolutely the way to go, low tech solution, cutting right to the chase!