Path Objects
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The path object can create any shape in any combination of straight edges and rounded edges through the use of the coordinate system.  Unlike a polygon object, the path can open and close several times to create open objects, closed objects, or a combination.  Like many other objects, paths use a brush and pen.


The path object can be edited in the properties window by editing the path:



PROPERTY REFERENCE


Path

This is where you enter in coordinates for the points on your path.  These coordinates utilize the coordinate system.  To enter points, click inside the Path box.  To the right of the box you will see the box.  Click on it to open the path editor.


Here you can enter in your points and order them.  The path will draw from each point on down the list sequentially.  Enter your coordinates into the X and Y boxes at the top, then click Add.  Or you can click on Pick, which will allow you to click on the point you want with your mouse.  To change a point you have entered, highlight it on the list and change the X and Y coordinates at the top.  Then click Update.  To remove a point, highlight it and then click Remove.  You can also change the order of the points by selecting them on the list and clicking the Up or Down buttons.


There are four types of path items you can add:

  • Move To-This will move the pen to the coordinate given.  It does not draw a line from the last point to this point.
  • Line To-This will draw a line from the previous point on the list to new point given.
  • Curve To-This will add a curve stretching from the previous point on the list to the new point given.  This path item utilizes two additional points to specify the shape of the curve.  For more information on the guiding points of a curve, see Bezier Curves.
  • Close Path-This will draw the line back to the starting point of the path.  No coordinates are needed for this item.  When the pen is moved again using the Move To path item, it will start a new path.  When the Close Path item is added again, it will close to the last Move To coordinates.