Offset an Object

Offset an Object

Offset an object to create a new object whose shape parallels the shape of the original object.

OFFSET creates a new object whose shape parallels the shape of a selected object. Offsetting a circle or an arc creates a larger or smaller circle or arc, depending on which side you specify for the offset.


You can offset

• Lines
• Arcs
• Circles
• Ellipses and elliptical arcs (resulting in an oval-shaped spline)
• 2D polylines
• Construction lines (xlines) and rays
• Splines

Special Cases for Offset Polylines and Splines

2D polylines and splines are trimmed automatically when the offset distance is larger than can otherwise be accommodated.


Closed 2D polylines that are offset to create larger polylines result in potential gaps between segments. The OFFSETGAPTYPE system variable controls how these potential gaps are closed.