How to Close Open Vector Paths in CorelDRAW

Closing open vector paths in CorelDRAW is essential for applying solid fills, preparing designs for CNC or laser cutting, and maintaining clean vector geometry. This guide outlines the most efficient methods to join endpoints and close open curves, whether you prefer using automatic property bar commands, manual node editing with the Shape tool, or the advanced Join Curves docker for multiple paths at once.

Method 1: Use the Property Bar (Quickest Method)

When working with a single open curve, the Property Bar offers the fastest one-click solution.

  1. Select the open path using either the Pick tool or the Shape tool (F10).
  2. Look at the Property Bar at the top of the workspace.
  3. Click the Close Curve icon. Depending on your version, you can choose:
    • Close Curve with Straight Line: Connects the two endpoints with a straight vector segment.
    • Close Curve with Curved Line: Connects the two endpoints while maintaining the curvature of the adjacent segments.

Method 2: Join Nodes with the Shape Tool (Manual Control)

If you need precise control over which specific nodes connect, use the Shape tool.

  1. Select the Shape tool (F10) from the toolbox.
  2. Click on the open vector object to display its nodes.
  3. Marquee-select the two open end nodes, or hold Shift and click each endpoint individually.
  4. On the Property Bar, click the Join two nodes button to merge them into a single node (if they overlap), or click Extend curve to close to draw a new segment between them.

Method 3: Use the Join Curves Docker (Best for Multiple Paths and Gaps)

When dealing with complex artwork, imported CAD files, or multiple disconnected line segments within a specific distance, the Join Curves docker provides automated control with gap tolerances.

  1. Navigate to Window > Dockers > Join Curves (or Window > Inspectors > Join Curves on macOS).
  2. Select all the open curves you want to connect using the Pick tool.
  3. In the docker, set the Gap tolerance. Any endpoints situated within this distance will automatically be joined.
  4. Choose a connection method from the drop-down menu:
    • Extend: Extends lines until they intersect.
    • Chamfer: Connects endpoints with a straight beveled line.
    • Fillet: Connects endpoints with a rounded arc.
    • Bézier Curve: Connects endpoints using a smooth curve based on existing node handles.
  5. Click Apply.

Method 4: Weld Overlapping Paths

If your open path consists of separate subpaths that already touch at their endpoints:

  1. Select all the individual segments using the Pick tool.
  2. Click Weld on the Property Bar (or go to Object > Shaping > Weld) to combine them into a single curve object.
  3. Switch to the Shape tool (F10), select the overlapping nodes at the junctions, and click Join two nodes to ensure the path is fully closed and continuous.