Bluebeam Tip: Create Smart Custom Symbols in Bluebeam Revu

Create smart, consistent custom symbols in Bluebeam Revu to accelerate markups, standardize communication, and improve downstream reporting.

Create the symbol

• Build with vector markups (Lines, Polylines, Ellipses, Text) for crisp scaling and reliable VisualSearch results—avoid raster snapshots when possible.
• Select your markups, then group (Ctrl+G).
• Right-click the group > Add to Tool Chest > choose a Tool Set (e.g., My Tools).
• Right-click the new tool in the Tool Chest > Rename Tool to a clear code (e.g., “ELEC_Receptacle_GFI_120V”).
• Set appearance once: color, line weight, fill/opacity. Apply a layer if you want symbols toggled by discipline.

Make it smart

• Toggle to Properties Mode so the symbol scales naturally on placement; use Drawing Mode for fixed-size icons.
• Add Actions (Properties panel > Actions) to jump to details, spec sections, or external URLs.
• Create Custom Columns (Markups List > Manage Columns) for data like Trade, Spec Section, CSI Code, Unit Cost; place one symbol with values, then right-click the tool > Update Tool from Markup.
• Prefer clean vector geometry and consistent line weights to improve VisualSearch and Count recognition.

Use it efficiently

• Assign your symbol to the Count tool (Properties Toolbar > Symbol) for rapid, consistent counts.
• Enable Reuse to place multiple instances without reselecting.
• Insert a Legend (Tools > Legend) to auto-list symbol names, quantities, and colors; format once and save as a reusable tool.
• Filter and summarize in the Markups List by Subject, Layer, Status, and Custom Columns for quick takeoffs and progress tracking.

Share and govern

• Standardize in a dedicated Tool Set; Tool Chest > Manage Tool Sets > Export (.btx) and distribute via Studio, a network share, or your DMS.
• Version your Tool Sets (e.g., v1.2) and document usage in a short guide stored with the .btx.
• For licensing, team rollouts, and best-practice bundles, consider partnering with NOVEDGE. Explore Bluebeam solutions at NOVEDGE or talk to their experts here.