How to Create Compound Paths in CorelDRAW

In CorelDRAW, compound paths—commonly created using the Combine command—allow you to merge two or more vector objects into a single curve object that shares line and fill properties. This article outlines the types of compound paths you can create in CorelDRAW, explaining how overlapping and non-overlapping elements interact to produce transparent cutouts, multi-part graphics, and specialized vector artwork.

Cutouts and Windowed Shapes (Hollow Objects)

The most common compound path in CorelDRAW is an enclosed shape inside another, such as a donut or a picture frame. When two overlapping closed curves are combined (using Object > Combine or Ctrl + L), the intersecting area becomes transparent, creating a "hole" through which background elements are visible. This technique is essential for creating:

  • Donut shapes and rings.
  • Frames, borders, and washers.
  • Stencil designs for vinyl or laser cutting.

Letterforms and Typographic Counters

When text is converted to curves (Object > Convert to Curves or Ctrl + Q), letters with interior spaces—such as A, B, D, O, P, Q, and R—become native compound paths. CorelDRAW treats the outer contour and the inner "counter" as connected subpaths of a single curve object. You can edit, break apart, or reconstruct these letterforms manually using compound path controls.

Non-Overlapping Disjointed Paths

A compound path does not require elements to touch or overlap. You can combine multiple distinct, isolated objects across your canvas into a single curve entity. These disconnected compound paths:

  • Share identical fill, outline, and transparency settings automatically.
  • Reduce object clutter in the Objects Docker.
  • Allow bulk operations across multiple separate elements simultaneously without grouping.

Complex Intersecting Patterns and Lattices

When multiple overlapping shapes (such as a grid of circles or a series of intersecting ribbons) are combined, CorelDRAW calculates alternating solid and transparent regions. Depending on the path winding rules applied, these create:

  • Geometric tessellations and lace-like vectors.
  • Halftone dot patterns functioning as a unified mask.
  • Architectural hatches and grill patterns.

Controlling Path Fills: Even-Odd vs. Non-Zero Winding

CorelDRAW determines which parts of a compound path are filled or transparent based on two fill rules, accessible in the Properties docker:

  • Even-Odd Fill: The default setting, where overlapping areas alternate systematically between filled and hollow, regardless of path direction.
  • Non-Zero (Winding) Fill: Uses the drawing direction (subpath direction) of the curves to determine whether an overlapping region is filled or subtracted. Reversing the subpath direction changes whether an inner shape acts as a hole or a solid.

Multi-Segment Open Curves

Compound paths can also be made from unclosed lines and open curves. Combining several open strokes keeps them as a single curve object containing multiple distinct subpaths. This is useful for technical drawings, hatching lines, and segmented stroke effects that must be edited or exported as a single vector path.