Changing layers of multiple element types at once.

[Arcadia]

Why can't I change the layers of a whole group of different elements at once? Example: I import a CAD file supplied by a client that has a bunch of layers I don't need so I want to combine them all to my 'CAD import layer'. If I select everything in the drawing and select the destination layer it changes things only one element at a time ie lines, fills, poly lines, dimensions etc so I have to do the whole thing over and over again till they are all in the right layer and the only way I can tell when I have achieved this is to have the destination layer switched off so that I eventually end up with all the CAD elements hidden. I just want to grab a bunch of elements sometime and dropp them all into a particular layer with one action.

[Brett Brown]

Ditto, I have had this problem continually. Love an answer or a quicker work around to.

[Anonymous]

Use the Edit Selection Set button - little hammer top left of image. Change all elements' layers at once.

[Brett Brown]

Exactly how i do it Stuart, Never works

P.S. Probably works in 11 Stuart but many things have gone backwards in 13

[Anonymous]

Something else to keep in mind. It seems that you can't change the layer of elements not on the current layer,to the current layer. The first element selected will set the current layer. Select one element that is not on the layer you want it to be, this will set that layer current. Then shift select everything else and follow S2arts advice. This is handy if you have a bunch of things that are already where they belong and you don't have to pick and choose. Should work fine.

Hope it makes sense cause I can't think of another way to explain it!

Doug

[Arcadia]

Well I just tried it Stuart and it works for me I hadn't realized or had forgotten about changing layers using this method. Thanks.

[Anonymous]

Tried it in 12 and 13. Seems to work fine.

[Anonymous]

I find that if you have things on the layer you want all of the selection to be on (i.e. correct layer is shown as current, the layer of the last selected element) just select any other layer, then select correct layer and all will change to correct layer. You don't have to select alternative layer then o.k. it, then go to Edit Selection Settings again. Just select a different layer, then select the right one.

[Brett Brown]

Thankyou Doug and Stuart of reminding me of that quirk which probably was my problem.

[Anonymous]

Hadn't thought of that one s2art. Good call!!