Learn how to arrange sketch items around a center point with Pattern – Circular.
What is the Pattern – Circular tool?
You can use the Pattern – Circular tool to repeat selected sketch items around a chosen center point. The pattern instances maintain a sketch pattern constraint relationship.
For linear patterns, use the Pattern – Linear tool . To learn how to pattern 3D geometry, visit Transform menu: Pattern tool .
How to use the Pattern – Circular tool
- Within a sketch, go to Sketch > Pattern – Circular .
For other ways to access tools, visit Accessing tools . - Select the sketch items you want to pattern.
- Move the gizmo center to the center of the circular pattern.
- Use the inline Angle Type control to choose Total or Spacing .
- Set Orientation to Uniform to preserve the original orientation or Rotated to rotate instances around the center.
- Drag the gizmo control to create the pattern, then enter a precise angle using the dimension label.
- Set Quantity to control the number of pattern instances.
- To finish, select an empty area of the grid.
Tip
Sketch patterns include a pattern constraint that maintains relationships between instances. Learn more about the Sketch pattern constraint .
History settings
Creating a sketch pattern does not create a separate Pattern step in History . You can still reopen the existing Sketch step to review or modify its settings:
- Plane – Select Edit… or Select… to change the plane or face containing the sketch, then select Done.
- Projection – If applicable, select Edit… to modify existing projections in the sketch.
When to use the Pattern – Circular tool
Use this tool for:
- Bolt-hole layouts – Arrange holes around a circular center.
- Radial details – Repeat spokes, slots, or teeth around a hub.
- Partial circular layouts – Distribute features across a specified angle.
Best practices and troubleshooting
- Choose Total for an overall extent or Spacing for the gap between instances.
- Check the sketch pattern constraint when adjusting individual instances after patterning.
| Issue | What to check |
|---|---|
| The copies are spaced incorrectly. | Check whether Total or Spacing is selected and verify the dimension value. |
| The pattern has too many or too few instances. | Check the Quantity value. |
| Copies have the wrong orientation. | Switch between Uniform and Rotated, and check the gizmo center. |
Read more
- Accessing tools – Understand how tools appear based on what you select in the modeling space.
- Selecting geometry – Master selection techniques for edges, faces, sketches, and bodies.
- Defining and calculating numerical values – Learn how to apply dimensions, enter precise values, and use formulas.
- Keyboard shortcuts, gestures, and hotkeys – View keyboard shortcuts you can use to access tools and speed up actions.
- Variables and expressions – Set up reusable values and expressions to control your design parametrically.