You can create a new element in a catalog by defining a number of different properties that determine its size, geometry and appearance.
To add a new element to a catalog:
Select File > Catalogs > Catalog Manager, or right-click an element in the catalog panel and select Catalog Manager.
Select the appropriate element type from the Element drop box.
In the Select a Type window, select the group you want to add the element to.
Select Catalog > Add Element.
Elements like furniture, appliances and accessories can be defined based on a set of general parameters, or by importing a DXF or 3DS file. If this is the case, you will see the Define Element dialog.
To define the element by specifying size properties, select the Use a Parametric Template radio button, select the specific element type you want to create (chair, table, etc.), then click OK.
To import a DXF or 3DS block, select the Import geometry from file radio button, click OK, then select the desired file. Some elements, like electronics, will prompt you directly for a file because they do not have a parametric template. For more information, see Importing Custom Objects.
Define the element's properties. (See Working with Property Pages.)
Note that if the Auto Name check box is enabled, the element will be automatically named for you. For example, if you are creating a wall and select Masonry for the wall type, and specify a width of 6”, the name automatically becomes 6” Masonry Wall. More info
If you want to give the element a different name, disable the Auto Name check box and type the desired name in the Name edit box.
Click OK. The element is added to the catalog.