How to create custom Symbol Fills with embedded fills in Archicad

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Symbol Fills in Archicad normally rely on linework-only patterns, which can limit the appearance of hatching and 2D documentation fills. By embedding fills inside a Symbol Fill definition, patterns can combine lines, arcs, hotspots, and filled areas in a single attribute, reducing manual layering and improving graphic control in plans and sections. This article describes how Symbol Fills are created from 2D sketches, how fills can be included in the pattern, and what limitations and performance considerations apply when using this method.

Issue description

Creating detailed hatching for 2D documentation often requires multiple stacked fills or additional linework to achieve the desired graphic result. When only line-based Symbol Fills are used, it can be difficult to represent textures that mix linework and solid areas while keeping attributes easy to manage and reuse between projects.

Solution: add fills to symbol fill patterns

1. Draw a pattern

   • In any 2D workspace, use the Fill tool alongside other drawing tools to compose a pattern with lines, arcs, hotspots, and at least one fill element. Select and group all elements to keep the pattern intact.
     
     

     

2. Copy the pattern

   • Select the entire pattern, including all fills, lines, arcs, hotspots, and copy to the clipboard.  

3. Open the Fill Types dialog

   • Navigate to Options > Element Attributes > Fill.

4. Create a new symbol fill

   • Click on New, select Symbol Fill as the fill type, and open the Symbol Fill editor.
     
     

     

      

5. Paste the pattern

   • In the Symbol Fill editor, paste the copied pattern into the drawing area.|
     
     

     

      

6. Adjust settings

   • Set the Fill Pattern Pen and other properties, such as scale and angle. Note that all elements—including the embedded fills—will use this pen, regardless of their individual settings prior to pasting.

7. Save and apply

   • Click OK to save the new symbol fill. The created Symbol Fill can now be applied to elements via the Fill tool or element setting wherever drafting, cover or cut fills of this type are allowed. 

 

Important considerations

• All pattern elements in a symbol fill—including added fills—will use the same Fill Pattern Pen. Individual pen settings from the drawing are not preserved.

• Adding fills to complex or highly-detailed symbol fills may increase file size or affect redraw speed, particularly in large projects. Use this technique where improved visual output is valuable.

Result

Using fills inside symbol fill definitions provides richer, more expressive 2D patterns, combines linework and solid areas in a single step, and simplifies documentation by embedding more visual information directly into project fills. This approach streamlines modeling and enhances the clarity of drawings.
 

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These techniques were originally shared by Community member @Laszlo Nagy . If you’d like to explore the original discussion, click here to read the full thread!

This article is part of the ‘Tip of the Month’ series on Graphisoft Insights, highlighting valuable community-driven solutions for modeling challenges. Try these methods in your next project and experience the difference in model quality and efficiency.