Dimensions of objects change

[toymaker1]

Hello.

I am finding that when I specify precise dimensions of a circle in the Illustrator Properties Panel, the measurements randomly change slightly, so that when I open the file the next day, the dimensions have changed. For example; if I  set  a circle measurement of 4.050/4.050 mm linked, Illustrator changes it to - for example - 4.048/4.046 It seems impossible to keep a circle to an exact dimension. Does anyone have any tips about this?

[Monika Gause]

Are you sure that this only happens the next day or does it happen directly after creating the  object?

how are your snapping options set up?

Exactly how do you create the object?

How is "Use preview bounds" set up?

Are your document units set to mm? Or do you just enter that in the panel?

[toymaker1]

Thanks for your response Betreff.
The dimensions otten change as I am entering the figures. I will have to
check my snapping options.I am not sure what they should be. I create the
circles with the Elipse Tool. I am not sure what 'Use preview bounds' is. I
will have to check that. I type in 'mm' after the dimension figures,
although usually it is already set to mm.

[Monika Gause · Accepted solution]

Please try and turn off "Use Preview bounds" in Preferences > General.

[toymaker1]

Thanks Betreff
I have turned off 'Use Preview Bounds' . I made some circles, and the
dimensions now seem to be holding stable. That has made an amazing
difference. Thanks for your help.

[Monika Gause]

You're welcome.

What "Use preview bounds" does: it adds the stroke weight (and effects and whatnot) to the size of the artwork. You probably really only want to set up the size of the path.