When you first launch DraftSight, it can feel like walking into a fully equipped workshop — everything’s there, but not necessarily where you want it. The good news is, DraftSight gives you the flexibility to arrange your interface the way you work best. Whether you prefer to access commands quickly, group tools by task, or create a cleaner workspace, customizing your interface can significantly boost your productivity.
The default layout is a solid starting point, but as you gain experience, you’ll notice certain tools or menus you use more often than others. By tailoring your workspace, you can minimize unnecessary clicks and keep essential tools right at your fingertips.
Here’s how you can start personalizing your DraftSight environment:
1. Setting Up Workspaces
DraftSight provides a few preset workspaces for general use, but you can also design your own from scratch.
Right-click anywhere in the interface and select Customize Interface. From there, you can:
Add or remove ribbons, toolbars, and menus
Customize elements like the Quick Access Toolbar
Rearrange tools with simple drag-and-drop actions
Once you’re happy with your layout, click Apply and OK. You can revisit and adjust your workspace anytime as your workflow evolves.
2. Adjusting Display and UI Preferences
A comfortable interface helps you stay focused during long drafting sessions. Open Options (type OPTIONS in the command line) to access various display and visual settings.
From here, you can:
Switch between light and dark themes
Change cursor or crosshair colors
Modify background colors for model and sheet areas
Adjust the font size and style of the command window
Tip: Use the search bar in the Options dialog to find settings faster — try keywords like “colors” or “command window.”
3. Creating Custom Toolbars and Ribbon Tabs
If you prefer a specific tool layout, you can build your own ribbon tabs or toolbars through the Customize Interface dialog.
For example, you can:
Create a new custom ribbon tab
Add panels within that tab for grouped commands
Drag and drop your most-used commands into those panels
You can also set up macros — sequences of commands that automate repetitive tasks and save time.
4. Assigning Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts (aliases) are one of the fastest ways to boost efficiency. To create or edit shortcuts, go to Options > User Preferences > Aliases.
You can:
Assign new shortcuts (e.g.,
MLLfor MULTILEADER)Modify existing ones to match your preferences
Export or import shortcut lists across devices
This makes it easy to keep your personalized setup consistent on every workstation.
5. (Optional) Automate with LISP
If you’re ready to explore automation, DraftSight supports LISP routines, which can execute complex tasks with a single command. LISP is widely used across CAD platforms to simplify repetitive work, such as creating layers, renaming blocks, or cleaning up drawings.
Even beginners can start with small scripts — many free examples and tutorials are available online to help you get started.
Customization is a Continuous Process
Your DraftSight interface doesn’t have to stay static. As your projects change and your skills grow, so should your workspace. Adjusting your layout, shortcuts, and visual preferences over time will help you maintain a drafting environment that’s comfortable, familiar, and efficient.
By shaping DraftSight around your workflow, you’ll spend less time searching through menus — and more time focusing on design.
