Rhino 3D Tip: Make2D Styles for Consistent, Presentation-Ready Linework

Make2D styles turn complex 3D models into clean, consistent 2D linework in seconds. Here’s how to get reliable, presentation-ready drawings every time.

Why styles matter

• Consistency: Lock in linetypes, weights, and layers so every view matches your brand or drawing standard.
• Speed: One click to repeat settings across multiple views or projects.
• Clarity: Control silhouettes, hidden lines, and tangents for readable line hierarchies.

Pre-flight checks

• Units and tolerances: Set Document units and Absolute tolerance before running Make2D to minimize micro-segments.
• Named Views: Save camera positions (NamedView) for batching and re-runs.
• Layer print widths: Predefine print widths by layer in your template so Make2D inherits them.
• Display sanity check: Use a shaded/edge display mode to preview what silhouettes and creases will communicate.

Create a Make2D style (Rhino 8+)

• Select geometry and run Make2D.
• Views: Choose Current, Named Views, or Multiple. Batch processing is ideal for boards and linework packs.
• Line groups:
  • Visible edges: Solid line, medium weight.
  • Silhouettes: Heavier weight to anchor the read; consider a darker layer color.
  • Hidden lines: Dashed linetype, lighter color/weight.
  • Tangent edges: Optional; enable for soft form legibility, disable for technical clarity.
• Layering strategy:
  • Maintain source layers for fabrication packages and BOM workflows.
  • By object type for fast graphic control (Visible/Hidden/Silhouette/Tangent on distinct layers).
• Organization: Enable Group output; choose Place in Model Space or send directly to a Layout if documenting.
• Clipping and sections: If using ClipPlanes, enable section/silhouette options for clean cut line emphasis.
• Save settings as a Style preset so you can recall it across files.

Three ready-to-use style patterns

• Concept Sketch: Thick silhouettes, no hidden, subtle tangents, slightly varied print widths for depth.
• Technical Draft: Clear hidden lines (short dash), no tangents, explicit creases, layer by type, widths aligned to your CAD standard.
• Illustrator Export: Minimal weights in Rhino, distinct layers by type, no hatches; refine stroke/appearance in AI after exporting.

Clean-up and optimization

• Use SelDup to remove duplicates; then SimplifyCrv or MergeCrv where appropriate.
• Avoid ultra-tiny features: Model scale and tolerance drive Make2D complexity and file weight.
• Compare HiddenLine for quick previews; finalize with your Make2D style for full control.

Exporting

• AI, DWG, or DXF: Preserve layer structure and map lineweights. Export at 1:1 if planning scale control downstream.
• PDF: Use Print widths and vector output for crisp lines on boards and submission sets.

Pro tips

• Template it: Store your Make2D styles, layers, and print widths in a project template for instant consistency.
• Batch once, refine many: Generate a full set from Named Views, then iterate design without rebuilding your graphic system.
• Upgrade benefits: Rhino 8’s Make2D refinements and style presets streamline drawing production—get it from NOVEDGE.

Need Rhino, plugins, or expert advice? Explore bundles, upgrades, and support at NOVEDGE for a smoother presentation pipeline.

You can find all the Rhino products on the NOVEDGE web site at this page.