Use the Offset Path command to create new objects that follow the path of a vector object.
Composite objects created by the Concentric Circles, Spiral, Cube, Gridmaker, or Multigon tools cannot be offset.
An offset object’s path follows the inside or outside of the original object’s path. Specify the offset distance and the number of objects to create. You can offset one vector object at a time.
To Offset an Object:
- Select a vector object and choose Effects | Offset Path.
- In the Offset Path dialog box, type the offset distance in the Distance box. In the Copies box, type the number of copies to make.
- Click OK to create the offset objects.
Canvas X Draw applies the current inks and stroke to offset objects. (See Inks: Colors and Patterns and Strokes: Outline Effects.) The new objects appear in front of the original if they are smaller; otherwise, they appear behind it.
The direction of the offset depends on whether you type a positive or negative Distance value.
When you offset an object that has an open path, type a negative value to offset the new object to the inside of the curve. Type a positive value to offset the new object to the outside of the curve.
When you offset an object that has a closed path, type a negative number to offset the new object to the inside of the original path. Type a positive number to offset the new object to the outside of the original path.
An offset object can differ in shape from the original object, if a large offset distance makes the path cross itself to follow narrow angles or tight curves of the original object.