Creating a Mask

You can create a Mask, a figure that overlays existing geometry with the current background color. The existing geometry is not erased.

The Mask command allows you to draw a polygonal shape or select an existing polygon to mask underlying entities. After you place the polygon over a section of the drawing, you can add entities on top of the polygon.

Annotate a masked area by placing opaque Text near it, or by highlighting areas of a drawing that need to be re-detailed, for example.

You can turn off Mask frames to seamlessly blend with existing drawing entities. This is helpful before you print a drawing.

  To control the visibility of different scenarios with Masks, use Layers.

To create a Mask out of points:

1. Click Draw > Mask (or type Mask).
2. Do one of the following:
   • On the menu, click Draw > Mask.
   • Type Mask.
3. In the graphics area, specify points in a sequence that define the contour of the area to mask.
4. Press Enter.

To create a Mask from a PolyLine:

1. Click Draw > Mask (or type Mask).
2. Do one of the following:
   • On the menu, click Draw > Mask.
   • Type Mask.
3. Specify the PolyLine option.
4. In the graphics area, select a PolyLine. The PolyLine must be closed and consist of Line segments with zero width.
5. Specify the Yes option to keep the polyline.

To show or hide Mask frames:

1. Click Draw > Mask (or type Mask).
2. Do one of the following:
   • On the menu, click Draw > Mask.
   • Type Mask.
3. Specify the Frames option.
4. Specify the Yes option to show Mask frames. Specify the No option to hide them.

Access

Command: Mask

Menu: Draw > Mask

Ribbon: Annotate > Markup > Mask