DraftSight CTB/STB PrintStyles and Lineweights
DraftSight supports color-dependent and named PrintStyle tables, including CTB/STB files, to control plotted color, lineweight, screening and other output properties.
Beginner takeaway: If the PDF looks flat, check PrintStyle assignment before editing drawing geometry.
What this workflow is really doing
A PrintStyle can override printed color, line style, lineweight, dithering, screening, grayscale, end/join and fill behavior. DraftSight also allows the PrintStyle file location to be configured.
Related CADPlotting guides: CTB vs STB for CAD Standards: Which Should You Use?, Plot Styles & Lineweights Guide, DraftSight PageLayouts and Print Configurations Explained.
Step-by-step workflow
Step 1 — Identify drawing mode
Where: PrintStyle settings
Do this: Determine color-dependent or named workflow.
Check: Correct table type is used.
Step 2 — Open PrintStyle editor
Where: PrintStyle command
Do this: Select/edit the intended CTB/STB.
Check: Office lineweight mapping is visible.
Step 3 — Assign to output
Where: PageLayout/Print Configuration
Do this: Choose the table and enable assigned PrintStyles.
Check: Preview changes accordingly.
Step 4 — Check lineweights
Where: Preview/PDF
Do this: Compare major/minor geometry and text.
Check: Hierarchy is readable.
Step 5 — Standardize file path
Where: Options > Printing
Do this: Point users to the controlled PrintStyle folder.
Check: All workstations see the same files.
Common problems and the first place to look
| Symptom | Likely cause | First check |
|---|---|---|
| CTB not found | PrintStyle path | Fix file location. |
| All lines same | Styles/lineweights not enabled | Check output options. |
| True-color object ignores expected CTB behavior | Object color behavior | Inspect object properties and test output. |
| One PC differs | Local PrintStyle copy | Compare controlled file version. |
Practical example
A project can be geometrically identical on two workstations but print differently when one user has an older CTB. Treat PrintStyle files as controlled project/CAD standards, not personal preferences.
Good office standard
Version and distribute PrintStyle files with the same discipline used for title blocks and production templates.
Official references
Frequently asked questions
Can DraftSight use CTB and STB files?
Yes. DraftSight supports color-dependent and named PrintStyle tables, including CTB/STB workflows.
Can DraftSight batch print several DWGs?
Yes. Batch Print can add files/folders and process Sheets using saved output configurations.
Should I use Fit to Paper for production sheets?
Not for scale-critical output. Match the paper size and use the intended full-size sheet scale.
Explore more in DraftSight Printing for AutoCAD Users: What Changes and What Transfers.