How to Use the Dimension Tool

Overview

The Dimension Tool allows you to create accurate measurements on your Canvas, enabling you to document precise spatial relationships between objects, walls, and other elements in your design. Whether you're creating floor plans, furniture layouts, or space planning diagrams, the Dimension Tool helps communicate critical size information for your projects.

Accessing the Dimension Tool

1. Open your Canvas project

2. Locate the Dimension Tool icon (ruler symbol) in the top toolbar

3. Click the icon to activate the Dimension Tool

Creating Basic Dimensions

When the Dimension Tool is active:

1. Click on your starting point

2. Move your cursor to the ending point (the tool will snap to key points on your canvas)

3. Click again to place the endpoint and create the dimension line

4. Drag the dimension to set length of extension lines and position dimension text

The measurement will automatically display in the current measurement units (feet and inches by default).

Understanding Dimension Elements

Each dimension consists of:

• Dimension Line: The line that represents the measured distance

• Extension Lines: Lines at each end that extend perpendicular from the measured points

• Extension Point: Point at center of Dimension Line (when selected) to adjust extension distance

• Dimension Text: Numerical value showing the precise distance

• Control Points: When dimension is selected, small purple points to adjust measured distance

Editing Dimensions

Moving Dimension Lines

1. Select the dimension by clicking on it

2. Drag the central control point to adjust the position of the dimension line

3. The measurement will remain accurate while the line moves parallel to the measured distance

Adjusting Endpoints

1. Select the dimension by clicking on it once

2. Click on the dimension a second time to activate the endpoint control points

3. Drag either end control point to change the measurement's start or end point

4. The measurement value will update in real-time to reflect the new distance

Dimension Properties and Options

After creating a dimension, you can customize its appearance and behavior:

Text Size Options

Access text size options from the bottom toolbar when a dimension is selected:

• Small: Compact text size for tight spaces

• Medium: Standard text size (default)

• Large: Enhanced text visibility for presentations

• Extra Large: Maximum text visibility

• Custom Size: Enter specific text size (in points)

These options control only the size of the measurement text, not the dimension lines themselves.

Text Options

1. Select a dimension

2. Use the font selector to choose from available fonts

3. Apply formatting options as needed

Style and Color Options

1. With a dimension selected, access the properties panel

2. Choose from color options to match your design scheme

3. Set text color separately from line color for better visibility

Using Dimensions Effectively

Space Planning

Use dimensions to:

• Verify that furniture fits properly in a space

• Ensure adequate clearance around objects

• Document room sizes and wall lengths

• Show distances between elements

Pro Tips

• Snap Points: Pay attention to the snap indicators that appear as you move your cursor - these ensure precise measurements

• Alignment Guide: Dimensions will automatically align to horizontal or vertical when you hold the Shift key while creating them

Keyboard Shortcuts