OFFSET command

Creates parallel copies.

Icon:

Alias: O

Description

Creates parallel copies of 2D entities and 3D solid faces.

Note: The OFFSETGAPTYPE system variable determines how potential gaps between segments are treated when polylines are being offset.
Note: The SELECTIONMODES system variable determines how potential conflicts are handled.
Note: When curved entities are offset, the command changes the radii of the copies.

Method

There are four methods to create an offset:

  • Enter offset distance
  • Through point
  • Erase
  • Layer

Options within the command

Enter offset distance
Specifies the distance between the original entity and its parallel copy.
Note: The offset distance is saved to the OFFSETDIST variable.
Both Sides
Places offset copies on both sides of the entity.
Multiple
Repeats the command until you press ESC.
Through point
Specifies the offset distance by picking two points.
Multiple
Repeats the command until you press ESC.
Erase
Deletes the source entity after the offset operation.
Note: The status is saved to the OFFSETERASE variable with the drawing, but is then reset (turned off) with the next drawing.
Layer
Specifies the layer on which to place the copied entity.
Current
Places the offset entity on the current layer.
Source
Places the offset on the same layer as that of the source entity.