Vexy Lines offers a powerful set of tools for creating, editing, and refining vector artwork. Each tool is designed to handle specific aspects of the creative process, from drawing and masking to precise measurements and curve editing.
Tools can be accessed in multiple ways:
- From the toolbar at the top of the interface
- Through the Tools menu in the main menu bar
- Using keyboard shortcuts (shown in parentheses)
Editor Tool (V)
The Editor is your primary selection and manipulation tool. Use it to:
- Select objects, contours, and nodes
- Move and transform objects
- Edit curve points and handles
- Hold Shift to select multiple objects
- Double-click to edit text
Pencil Tool (P)
The Pencil creates freehand strokes and is ideal for:
- Drawing natural, fluid lines
- Creating custom Handmade fills
- Tracing irregular shapes
- Adding artistic details to your artwork
Mask Tools
Use these tools to create masking shapes that define where your fills appear:
Brush Tool (B)
The Brush tool creates mask areas with pressure sensitivity (when using a graphics tablet):
- Click and drag to paint mask areas
- Hold Alt to erase parts of the mask
- Adjust brush size in the toolbar or using Ctrl+drag
- Perfect for creating organic, painterly effects
Rectangle Tool (I)
- Click and drag to create rectangular masks
- Hold Shift for perfect squares
- Click once to auto-detect rectangular shapes in images
- Shift+Click to add multiple rectangles
- Alt+Click to remove rectangular areas
Ellipse Tool (O)
- Click and drag to create elliptical masks
- Hold Shift for perfect circles
- Click once to auto-detect circular shapes
- Shift+Click to add multiple ellipses
- Alt+Click to subtract elliptical areas
Freeform Tool (S)
- Draw custom shapes with precise control
- Click and drag to create freeform paths
- Click once to auto-detect complex shapes in images
- Hold Shift to preview area before completing
- Shift+Click to add more shapes
- Alt+Click to subtract areas
Utility Tools
Ruler Tool (R)
The Ruler helps you measure distances and angles:
- Click and drag between points to measure
- Displays length in current document units
- Shows angle in degrees
- Perfect for precise alignment and planning
Knife Tool (K)
The Knife lets you split and edit existing strokes:
- Insert new points into curves
- Split closed curves into open segments
- Cut curves at specific points
- Create cutting lines to divide multiple curves at once
- Works with Handmade fills and mask contours
Tool Options
Many tools have additional options available in the toolbar when selected:
Brush Size
When using the Brush tool, adjust the brush diameter to create fine details or cover large areas quickly.
Auto-Detection Sensitivity
For Rectangle, Ellipse, and Freeform tools, adjust sensitivity when using auto-detection to better capture shapes in your source image.
Knife Mode
When using the Knife tool, choose between:
- Point mode: Add points or split at a specific location
- Line mode: Create a cutting line to divide multiple strokes
Tips for Effective Tool Use
- Use keyboard shortcuts to switch between tools quickly
- Press Spacebar temporarily to access the Hand tool for canvas navigation
- Toggle fill visibility (View menu) to focus on editing masks and contours
- Use Shift and Alt modifiers to extend or restrict tool operations
- For precision work, zoom in using Z or Ctrl+Mouse Wheel