Macromedia Path and point characteristics

Path and point characteristics

Paths and points have the following basic characteristics:

v  A path can be open with unconnected end points, or closed with the same beginning and ending point.

Examples of Open Path

Examples of Closed Path 

v  Each path can have up to 32,000 points, which lets you import complex files from other sources. However, using more points increases file size and slows redrawing and printing.

v  Paths can be outlined by lines or "strokes" of varying widths and filled with color, gradients, or patterns. Paths can also be filled with bitmap images.

            By default, fills of open paths don't display or print, but you can change this behavior.

v  Paths have either clockwise or counterclockwise direction. The Rectangle, Polygon, and Ellipse tools draw in a clockwise direction. With the Line tool, the direction in which you draw sets the path direction. With the FreeHand Pen and Bezigon tools, the order in which you place points sets the path direction.

            The path direction affects path operations.

v  Different types of points anchor path segments and let you edit lines and curves in different ways by adjusting their handles.

            Corner, curve, and connector points

FreeHand places a corner point, which is displayed as a square, when you draw a straight path segment. A corner point's handles can be adjusted independently. When you first select a corner point, its handles are retracted.

   

FreeHand places a curve point, which is displayed as a circle, when you draw a curved path segment. A curved point's handles move in tandem. When you first select a curve point, its handles are extended.

Connector points, which are displayed as triangles, let you make a smooth transition between a straight path segment and a curved one. The position of adjacent points limits how much you can adjust a connector point's handles and whether its handles are initially extended or retracted.

Splitting paths

You can manually split paths and create either open or closed paths by using the Knife tool or the Split command.