Learn how to draw lines and arcs using pen gestures, switch between them, and choose a specific drawing mode when needed.
What is the Automatic Line/Arc tool?
You can use the Automatic Line/Arc tool to draw straight lines and arcs with a pen. In Automatic mode, Shapr3D switches between line and arc drawing based on your pen gestures.
This drawing method is specific to pen input. You can also choose Line or Arc manually when you want to draw only one type.
How to use the Automatic Line/Arc tool
Draw lines and arcs automatically
- Define your sketch plane.
- Start drawing with your pen. Shapr3D enters sketch mode and automatically detects whether you're drawing a line or an arc.
- To switch between drawing a line and an arc, briefly shake your pen from side to side while keeping its tip on the screen.
Choose Line or Arc manually
- Go to Sketch > Line/Arc.
For other ways to access tools, visit Accessing tools. - Open the Line Type menu below Line/Arc.
- Change Automatic to Line or Arc.
- Draw with your pen using the selected type.
Choose Line or Arc manually
- Go to Sketch > Line/Arc.
For other ways to access tools, visit Accessing tools. - Open the Line Type menu below Line/Arc.
- Change Automatic to Line or Arc.
- Draw with your pen using the selected type.
For detailed drawing instructions, visit the Line and Arc tool articles.
History settings
Shapr3D records sketch items created on the same plane in a shared Sketch step in History. Find the Sketch step to review or modify these 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 Automatic Line/Arc tool
- Sketch continuously with a pen – Move between straight and curved sketch items without repeatedly changing drawing tools.
- Draw only straight lines or arcs – Choose Line or Arc when you want to prevent automatic switching.
Best practices and troubleshooting
- Check the drawing mode. If the tool isn't switching between lines and arcs, make sure Line Type is set to Automatic.
- Choose a specific type when needed. If automatic detection isn't producing the sketch item you want, switch to Line or Arc.
| Issue | What to check |
|---|---|
| The tool doesn't switch between lines and arcs. | Check that Line Type is set to Automatic, then use the pen wiggle gesture while sketching. |
| You want to draw only lines or only arcs. | Open Line Type and select Line or Arc. |
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.