How to Print in Black except for one layer or color in AutoCAD

Autodesk Support

Mar 6, 2025

Products and versions covered

Issue:

How to print or plot in black except for one layer or color in AutoCAD.

Solution:

To do this use one of the solutions below: 

  • Using a copy of the monochrome.ctb plot style, assign the desired layer as a TrueColor or RGB color rather than an Index color. (TrueColor selections will plot color without respect for the color set in the CTB file). 
  • Using a copy of the monochrome.ctb plot style, assign one color to plot a specific color or select Use Object Color.
  • Set up Layout viewports to show and plot the colors to be plotted:
  1. Enter model space through the viewport (double-click inside the viewport or select Model from the Status bar)
  2. Open the Layers palette (LAYER).
  3. Use CTRL+A to select all the layers.
  4. Click one of the color boxes in the VP Color column.
  5. When the dialog box opens, select Black (or 250).
  6. Select OK.
  7. Note the layers of objects in the drawing that should be displayed in color. 
  8. In the Layers palette, change those layers in the VP Colors column to the desired color. 
  9. Plot using a color based plot style, or create a customized copy of the monochrome.ctb that plots only the desired colors as noted above. 
  •  Isolate the layer to be plotted in color:
  1. Copy the objects at basepoint 0,0 and 2nd point 0,0.
  2. Move objects to a new layer and color.
  3. Turn off both layers, then turn all other layers.
  4. Temporarily change those layers to Black or color 250.
  5. Turn the new layer on.
  6. Plot.

Products:

AutoCAD for Mac; AutoCAD LT for Mac; AutoCAD Products;

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