How to Import a Bluebeam BTX Tool Set
A step-by-step guide to importing a BTX tool set file into Bluebeam Revu, including where to find the Tool Chest and how to manage your imported tools.
By Construction Markup Tools
In this guide:
What is a BTX File?
A BTX file is the standard export format for Bluebeam Revu tool sets. It contains a collection of custom markup tools, symbols, and settings that can be shared between users or downloaded and imported into any compatible version of Bluebeam Revu. Once imported, the tools appear in your Tool Chest panel and are immediately available for use on any project.
Before You Start
Make sure you have Bluebeam Revu installed and open. The supplied BTX files were import-tested in Revu 21.9. For another Revu release, use the free sample to test the exact workstation before purchase. Bluebeam states that Revu 2019 and earlier are end of life.
Step-by-Step: Importing a BTX Tool Set
Follow these steps to import your BTX tool set into Bluebeam Revu:
- Open Bluebeam Revu on your computer.
- Open any PDF document — the Tool Chest is only accessible when a document is open.
- Go to the top menu bar and click on Window.
- Select Tool Chest from the dropdown menu. The Tool Chest panel will open on the right side of your screen.
- In the Tool Chest panel, click the small arrow or menu icon in the top-right corner of the panel.
- Select Import from the dropdown options.
- A file browser window will open. Navigate to where you saved your downloaded BTX file.
- Select the BTX file and click Open.
- The tool set will be imported and a new group or tab will appear in your Tool Chest.
- Your imported symbols are now ready to use — simply click any symbol to select it and start marking up your drawings.
Managing Your Imported Tools
Once imported, you can organise your tool sets within the Tool Chest by renaming groups, dragging tools between groups, or creating sub-groups for different project types. To export a modified tool set for sharing with your team, use the same Tool Chest menu and select Export.
Troubleshooting Common Import Issues
If the import fails, check that your BTX file is not corrupted and that you are using a compatible version of Bluebeam Revu. Ensure a PDF document is open before attempting to access the Tool Chest. If the tools don't appear after import, try closing and reopening the Tool Chest panel.
FAQs
Do I need a PDF open to import a BTX file?
Yes. The Tool Chest panel in Bluebeam Revu is only accessible when at least one PDF document is open.
Can I share my imported tool set with my team?
Yes. Once imported, you can export the tool set again from the Tool Chest and share the BTX file with colleagues. Check the licence terms to confirm team sharing is permitted.
Which versions of Bluebeam Revu support BTX imports?
The supplied BTX files were import-tested in Revu 21.9. Test the free sample in any other Revu release before purchase; Revu 2019 and earlier are end of life according to Bluebeam.
Bluebeam is a trademark of its respective owner. Construction Markup Tools is an independent resource and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Bluebeam, Inc. All products are original resources created to support construction markup workflows.