AutoCAD Change Layer LISP: Move Objects to a Picked Layer

Moves the selected objects to the layer of a sample object you click.

LAYTOPICK is an AutoCAD change layer LISP tool for a very common job: putting objects on a different layer. You select the objects, then click any object that already sits on the target layer. Everything you selected moves to that layer, with no need to open the layer list or type a name.

AutoCAD's built-in LAYMCH (Layer Match) does the same job and offers more options, such as typing the target layer name. LAYTOPICK is a stripped-down version of that flow: select, pick, done. It behaves the same in full AutoCAD and in GstarCAD, so you can use one habit in both programs.

When it finishes, the command line reports how many objects were moved and to which layer. The whole change is a single undo step.

How to use it

1. Load laytopick.lsp with APPLOAD.
2. Type LAYTOPICK at the command line.
3. Select the objects to move and press Enter.
4. Click an object that is on the target layer.
5. Check the command line message for the number of objects moved.

Notes and tips

• Objects on locked layers cannot be changed; unlock the layer first.
• If you select a block, only the block reference changes layer; the objects inside the block keep their own layers.
• If you click a block as the target, the block reference's layer is used, not the layer of the nested object under the cursor.
• If the target layer is frozen or off, the moved objects will disappear from view. That is expected.

Frequently asked questions