How to Use the Mirror Command in AutoCAD

The Mirror command in AutoCAD is a simple yet powerful tool that allows you to create a mirrored (reflected) copy of an object. By using a specified axis or line, the command creates a copy of the object that is symmetrical to the original. This is especially useful when working with objects that need to be replicated on the opposite side of a drawing or in situations where symmetry is important.

What Is the Mirror Command?

The Mirror command in AutoCAD enables you to duplicate an object while reversing its orientation along a specified axis. The mirrored object is a reflection, so it’s flipped along the axis you define, creating an exact copy on the opposite side.

• Example: If you draw a line on one side of the drawing, you can use the Mirror command to create an identical line on the other side, mirrored along a central axis or line.

How to Use the Mirror Command in AutoCAD

Follow these steps to use the Mirror command:

1. Activate the Mirror Command:
   • You can activate the Mirror command in several ways:
     • Type MIRROR in the command line and press Enter.
     • Click the Mirror button on the Home tab in the ribbon (under the Modify panel).
     • Use the keyboard shortcut MI (type MI and press Enter).
2. Select the Objects to Mirror:
   • After activating the Mirror command, AutoCAD will prompt you to select the objects you want to mirror.
   • Click on the object(s) that you want to mirror. You can select multiple objects by clicking on them or using a selection window. Once selected, press Enter to proceed.
3. Define the Mirror Line (Axis):
   • AutoCAD will now ask you to specify the mirror line. This is the axis along which the object will be mirrored. You can:
     • Click two points to define the line or axis along which the object will be mirrored.
     • Use existing lines, or you can manually draw a line to define the axis.
     • The object will be mirrored to the opposite side of the axis.
4. Decide Whether to Keep or Delete the Original Object:
   • After defining the mirror line, AutoCAD will prompt you to decide whether to keep the original object or delete it.
     • Type Y for Yes to keep the original object.
     • Type N for No to delete the original object and only keep the mirrored version.
5. Complete the Command:
   • Press Enter to complete the command. You should now see the mirrored object in the drawing, flipped along the defined axis.

Tips for Using the Mirror Command

1. Use a Construction Line for Symmetry:
   • If you're working with symmetrical objects, create a construction line (a temporary line) to serve as the axis for mirroring. This helps maintain symmetry when mirroring complex objects.
2. Mirror Multiple Objects at Once:
   • The Mirror command allows you to mirror multiple objects simultaneously. When prompted to select the objects, just click on all the objects you want to mirror. AutoCAD will create mirrored copies of all selected items.
3. Mirror Through the Origin:
   • If you need to mirror objects around the origin (0,0), simply create a line passing through the origin, and use that line as your mirror axis. This ensures the mirrored objects are positioned symmetrically about the center of your drawing.
4. Use the Undo Command:
   • If you make an error with the mirror, you can always use the Undo command (Ctrl + Z) to revert the action. This is helpful for quickly correcting mistakes without starting over.
5. Snap to Points:
   • If you need to mirror an object along a specific point or axis, use the Snap or Grid Snap function to ensure precision when defining your mirror line.

Common Issues When Using the Mirror Command

1. Objects Not Mirroring Correctly:
   • If objects are not mirrored correctly, ensure that you are selecting the correct objects and that the mirror line is positioned as you intended. Objects will only mirror properly if the mirror line is defined accurately.
2. Object Mirror Location Is Incorrect:
   • If the mirrored object appears in the wrong place, double-check that your mirror line is positioned correctly. The object will mirror relative to this line, so if the line is misplaced, the mirror effect will be too.
3. Accidental Deletion of the Original:
   • If you accidentally delete the original object when performing the mirror, simply use the Undo command to restore it.
4. Objects Not Mirroring Symmetrically:
   • Ensure that your mirror line is in the right location. The line should divide your objects symmetrically. If the mirror line is off-center, the mirrored object may appear skewed or not where you want it.

Conclusion

The Mirror command in AutoCAD is a valuable tool for duplicating objects with precise symmetry. Whether you’re designing architectural plans, mechanical components, or any other type of drawing, the ability to mirror objects quickly and accurately will improve your efficiency and help maintain consistency in your designs. By understanding how to use the Mirror command and following some helpful tips, you can easily create reflections of objects that enhance the quality of your drawings.