[Simon Knight]

I'm no expert but........

I think that there are two approaches. For both set a scale for use in your drawing e.g 1c.m. : 8m.

1. If you use lines then use the inspector to set the dimensions length, width and angle. Move the lines into place by grabbing them in the middle and using the mouse or for greater accuracy use the arrow keys.

2. Use thin rectangles instead of lines. The lengths may be set using the inspector and they may be rotated using the command key with the mouse.

3. To display line lengths just add text to a line by typing and dragging the text to the line or rectangle then select insert variable from the edit menu - try line length for lines or width for rectangles.

best wishes
Simon