CorelDRAW Block Shadow Depth Settings

This article provides an overview of the block shadow depth settings available in CorelDRAW, detailing how to modify the distance, angle, and geometric behavior of vector shadows. By understanding these controls on the Property Bar and the interactive workspace handles, users can achieve precise, high-impact solid shadows for typography, logos, and vector illustrations.

Block Shadow Depth (Length)

The primary depth setting controls the physical length or distance that the shadow extends from the original object.

  • Property Bar Control: Located on the Property Bar when the Block Shadow tool is active, the Depth box allows you to enter a specific numerical measurement (such as millimeters, inches, or points, depending on your document units).
  • Interactive Handle: In the drawing window, clicking and dragging the arrow handle at the end of the shadow extrusion manually increases or decreases the depth in real time.

Shadow Direction and Angle

While depth determines how far the shadow travels, the direction determines the trajectory of that depth.

  • Angle Control: You can set a precise degree value (from 0° to 360°) on the Property Bar to dictate the exact angle of the projection.
  • Vector Manipulation: Dragging the interactive control handle radially around the source object alters the direction and depth simultaneously.

Remove Holes

When working with deep block shadows on objects that contain negative space (such as the letters "O", "A", or "P"), the extrusion can fill in or preserve those interior cutouts.

  • Hole Suppression: Toggling the Remove Holes button on the Property Bar allows you to close the interior spaces created by the depth extrusion, turning hollow interior areas into solid shadow mass. This is particularly useful for achieving a clean, bold look on high-depth objects.

Shadow Simplification and Trimming

As depth increases, shadows can overlap or create self-intersecting vectors.

  • Simplify: When enabled, this setting automatically trims overlapping areas and cleans up redundant vector nodes generated by the depth projection, ensuring the shadow acts as a single, clean vector path for cutting or printing.

Overprint and Color Adjustments

Although primarily visual rather than geometric, the appearance of depth is finalized using the following:

  • Color Fill: Sets the solid fill color across the entire extruded depth.
  • Overprint Block Shadow: Ensures that the shadow does not knock out underlying colors in professional print environments, blending the depth cleanly into layered artwork.