There are two scaling tools in Fusion 360, one is the scale tool which works with objects, bodies and components – the other is the sketch scale, a tool to control the size of sketched elements individually and in groups.
To use both tools for the same project, we have to understand scale factors and use the origin point. This will ensure synchronized placement and dimensions for all elements of a project when scaling.
Let’s look at how you can scale sketches, imported files, components, and entire models in Fusion 360.
Scale A Sketch
Details
Change the size of any shape or a group of shapes and use reference dimensions for scaling.
Steps
- Right-click over the sketch > Select Edit Sketch.
- Select a geometry or multiple geometries.
- Dropdown MODIFY panel’s menu > Click Sketch Scale.
- Hold CTRL on the keyboard then click on any point to deselect it.
- Within SKETCH SCALE window, Point > Click Select.
- Select the deselected point > type in a Scale Factor or grab the arrow.
- Click OK.
✨ Tip: Select the import, then use the “manipulator” curve for free-scaling. When you hover over the curve, two arrows appear, representing increase and decrease directions.
With Reference: Enter the equation “new dimension/original dimension” in the Scale Factor dialogue box.
Without moving the origin: by centering the sketch, then selecting the origin (0,0) as the Point.
Scale based on one dimension: Activate the Scale entire sketch at first dimension option. Go to Account icon on the toolbar > Preferences > General > Design.
SVG and DXF
Details
The sketch was imported from a vector file and has a geometry that needs to be scaled.
Steps
- As soon as you insert the file, control the scale via INSERT SVG window.
- Change the value of Scale Plan XY, for live changes.
- Click OK, then FINISH SKETCH.
✨ Tip: The working units of an exported STL differ from those assumed by Fusion 360 when it imports. Apparently, STL files are unit-less. When you use Insert/Mesh to bring in an STL, the first field is the Unit Type. Make sure you select the correct unit type. It’s set to centimeter by default.
Entire Model
Details
Change the scale of components, meshes and bodies in Fusion 360.
Steps
- Hold Left-click and drag the cursor over all objects to select them.
- Dropdown MODIFY tab menu > Select Scale, drag the arrow to control.
- Within SCALE window, change the value of Scale Factor > Click OK.
Within the selection mode, click once on an object to include or exclude it in the live scale changes.
Within the Scale window, select Uniform or Non Uniform, the later provides control over X, Y and Z directions in three different value fields.
✨ Tip: Use the Browser if any object refuses to scale. Go to MODIFY menu > Select Scale > Within the Browser, dropdown the items of Components and Bodies > Click on each object to include as an Entity for scaling.
Mohamed Fakhry has helped thousands of architects and designers find their next project with step-by-step guidance on his blog, mashyo.com. About Mohamed
His journey began during his university years when he recognized the need for information-rich 3D models to accelerate learning and improve production processes. Now, Mohamed shares his expertise through Revit tutorials that are accessible to all.
