How to Break Curve Paths Apart in CorelDRAW

Breaking curve paths apart in CorelDRAW allows you to separate multi-segment curves, open closed shapes, or divide combined objects into independent vector elements for individual editing. Whether you need to split an outline at a specific node or detach multiple subpaths that belong to a single object, CorelDRAW provides dedicated tools to accomplish this quickly. This guide outlines the exact steps to break curves apart using the Shape tool, the Break Apart command, and the Knife tool.

Method 1: Break a Path at Specific Nodes

Use this method when you want to open a closed shape or slice a continuous line into two separate segments at an exact point.

  1. Select the Shape Tool: Click the Shape tool in the toolbox on the left or press F10 on your keyboard.
  2. Select the Node: Click on the curve to display its nodes, then click directly on the node where you want the path to split. To split a segment without an existing node, double-click on the path line to create a new node first.
  3. Click Break Curve: On the top Property Bar, click the Break Curve icon (represented by an arrow pointing between two separated nodes).
  4. Separate the Subpaths: CorelDRAW splits the node into two overlapping nodes. While the path is now open, the segments still belong to the same combined object. To separate them into completely distinct objects, go to the menu bar, select Object, and choose Break Curve Apart (or press Ctrl + K).

Method 2: Break Apart Combined Paths (Ctrl + K)

If you have an object composed of multiple disconnected subpaths (such as imported SVG artwork, converted text, or objects joined using the Combine command), you can instantly break them into individual objects.

  1. Select the Object: Use the standard Pick tool to select the curve object containing multiple paths.
  2. Apply Break Apart: Go to the top menu and select Object > Break Curve Apart, or simply press the shortcut Ctrl + K.
  3. Verify Separation: Deselect the artwork by clicking on an empty area of the canvas. You can now click and drag each individual curve path independently.

Method 3: Split Paths Using the Knife Tool

For freehand or visual cuts across curve paths without manually selecting nodes, use the Knife tool.

  1. Activate the Knife Tool: Click and hold the Crop tool flyout menu in the toolbox and select the Knife tool.
  2. Choose Cut Options: On the Property Bar, choose whether you want the cut to keep the path open or automatically close the resulting shapes.
  3. Cut the Curve: Click on the outline of the curve where you want to start the cut, drag across the path, and release the mouse on the opposite outline or boundary.
  4. Separate: Switch back to the Pick tool to select and move the severed paths apart.