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How to Edit a Block's Base Point in AutoCAD

Published in AutoCAD Block Editing 3 mins read

You can edit the base point (insertion point) of a block in AutoCAD using the Block Editor.

Editing the base point of a block is essential, especially if, as described in some cases, the block's insertion point is far away from its geometry. The base point determines where the block attaches to your cursor when inserted and its coordinate origin within the drawing.

Here's how to modify a block's base point:

  1. Access the Block Editor:

    • Select the block instance in your drawing.
    • Right-click and choose "Block Editor" from the context menu.
    • Alternatively, type BE or BEDIT in the command line and press Enter.

  2. Select the Block Definition:

    • If you used the BEDIT command, a dialog box will appear listing available block definitions.
    • Select the block you want to edit from the list. If you selected the block instance first, it will likely be highlighted.
    • Press OK. This opens the Block Editor environment.

  3. Set the New Base Point:

    • Once inside the Block Editor, you are working on the block's definition.
    • Locate the Block Authoring Palette. If it's not visible, you can typically turn it on from the ribbon or a menu.
    • In the palette, specifically under the Parameters tab, select the "Base" parameter tool.
    • You will be prompted to specify the base point. Click the desired location in the drawing area within the Block Editor workspace. This point will become the new insertion point for the block. You can snap to existing geometry or enter coordinates.

  4. Save the Changes:

    • After setting the new base point and making any other necessary edits to the block geometry or properties, save your changes.
    • On the Block Editor ribbon tab, click "Save Block" or "Save Block As".
    • Click "Close Block Editor".

Once you close the Block Editor, all instances of that block in your drawing will update to use the new base point you defined.

Reference: For issues where the block's base point is far from its geometry, the process involves accessing the Block Editor and selecting the Base parameter to define a new insertion point. (Based on: https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/When-inserting-a-block-into-an-AutoCAD-drawing-the-base-point-of-the-block-is-far-away-of-the-block-geometry.html)

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