How to Add Centerline in AutoCAD: Step-by-Step Guide

To add a centerline in AutoCAD, use the CENTERLINE command which automatically creates centerlines between selected objects. Alternatively, you can draw construction lines with the XL command and snap them to object centers for manual centerlines.

Syntax

The CENTERLINE command syntax is simple: select two parallel objects or lines, and AutoCAD draws a centerline between them. For manual centerlines, use the XL command to create construction lines.

• CENTERLINE: Automatically creates centerlines between selected objects.
• XL (XLINE): Draws infinite construction lines, useful for manual centerlines.

autocad command

Command: CENTERLINE
Select first object or [Multiple]: select line or circle
Select second object: select parallel line or circle
Centerline created between objects.

Output

A dashed centerline appears between the selected objects.

Example

This example shows how to add a centerline between two parallel circles using the CENTERLINE command.

autocad command

1. Type <code>CENTERLINE</code> and press Enter.
2. Select the first circle.
3. Select the second circle.
4. AutoCAD draws a dashed centerline between the two circles automatically.

Output

A dashed centerline is displayed exactly between the two circles.

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when adding centerlines include:

• Trying to use CENTERLINE on non-parallel objects, which will not work.
• Not selecting objects in the correct order, causing unexpected centerline placement.
• For manual lines, forgetting to use XL for construction lines, resulting in permanent lines instead of reference lines.

Always ensure objects are parallel and use the correct commands for best results.

autocad command

Wrong way:
Command: CENTERLINE
Select first object: select non-parallel line
Select second object: select another non-parallel line
Result: No centerline created or error.

Right way:
Command: CENTERLINE
Select first object: select parallel line
Select second object: select parallel line
Result: Centerline created.

Output

Centerline only appears when objects are parallel.

Quick Reference

Command	Purpose	Notes
CENTERLINE	Creates centerlines between parallel objects	Use on parallel lines or circles
XL (XLINE)	Draws infinite construction lines	Use for manual centerlines or references
OFFSET	Creates parallel lines at a set distance	Can help create centerlines manually
DIMCENTER	Marks center points of circles/arcs	Useful for dimensioning centerlines

Key Takeaways

Use the CENTERLINE command to quickly add centerlines between parallel objects.

For manual centerlines, use the XL command to draw construction lines.

Centerlines only work correctly between parallel lines or circles.

Always select objects carefully to ensure accurate centerline placement.

Use DIMCENTER to mark centers for dimensioning along centerlines.