Inserting blocks

Last updated: 2026-01-06

Total video time: 10:33

Exercise files: pln-prod-basc-insrt-blk-data-c3d18.zip

Start with 05001-tc.dwg

pln-prod-basc-insrt-blk-01.mp4 3:53

Many WisDOT blocks are available from tool palettes.

WisDOT Sheets tab > Sheet Creation Components > Signs > M-signs > M1-4

All blocks are available through DesignCenter.

WisDOT Tools tab > Standards Components > Open Design Center or Home tab > Palettes > Design Center

Design Center allows you to browse files for blocks and other AutoCAD components.

C:\WisDOT\Stnd\C3D2018\Components\Blocks\MarkingSigning18.dwg\Blocks

Blocks can be dragged and dropped from Design Center into modelspace or paperspace.

pln-prod-basc-insrt-blk-02.mp4 2:59

Dynamic blocks have multiple grips that do different things.

Some blocks also have text attributes that can be changed.

Info: Grey in Value means that the text is coming from a field and cannot be edited here.

pln-prod-basc-insrt-blk-03.mp4 3:40

Blocks in paperspace

  1. Will only show up in one layout.
  2. Will align with top of layout with no rotation.

Blocks in modelspace

  1. Will show up all layouts.
  2. Will align with positive Y-axis with no rotation.

Some blocks are scaled for modelspace, paperspace, or both. If a block does not work in one, you may need to place it in the other space or scale it.