How to Split Dynamic Blends in CorelDRAW

This article provides a direct, step-by-step guide on how to split an existing dynamic blend into two separate, editable blends within CorelDRAW. You will learn the exact tools to use, how to designate the split point along the blend path, and the key difference between splitting dynamic blends and breaking them apart into static objects.

Understanding Dynamic Blend Splitting

When you split a dynamic blend in CorelDRAW, the intermediate step you select becomes a shared endpoint for two new, independent dynamic blend groups. Unlike breaking a blend apart (which converts the steps into static vector curves), splitting preserves all dynamic blend properties—such as color progression, acceleration, and step counts—allowing both sections to be modified independently.

Steps to Split a Dynamic Blend

  1. Select the Blend: Open your project in CorelDRAW and select the existing dynamic blend using the Pick Tool.
  2. Activate the Blend Tool: In the toolbox on the left side of the screen, select the Blend Tool (often nested under the Drop Shadow or Effects flyout). Once selected, the Property Bar at the top of the interface will display the blend settings.
  3. Click the Split Button: On the Property Bar, locate and click the Split icon (it resembles a blend line being divided by an arrow or slash). Your cursor will transform into a curved split arrow.
  4. Choose the Split Point: Move the cursor over the blend and click directly on the intermediate step or path location where you want the division to occur.
  5. Adjust the Resulting Blends: CorelDRAW immediately divides the blend into two dynamic components. You can now select either half with the Blend Tool to independently modify properties such as step count, rotation, or color transitions.

Split Blend vs. Break Blend Apart

It is important not to confuse the Split command with the Break Apart command:

  • Split Blend: Divides one dynamic blend into two separate dynamic blends. Both new segments remain fully responsive to vector property changes and blend adjustments.
  • Break Blend Apart (Ctrl + K): Separates the blend group into the original start and end objects, placing the intermediate blend steps into an ungrouped or grouped set of standard vector paths. Dynamic blend functionality is lost once a blend is broken apart.