How to Use Node Editing in CorelDRAW

Node editing is a fundamental vector design skill in CorelDRAW that enables you to manipulate the underlying paths of any object with precision. This guide covers the essential steps for using the Shape tool to select, add, delete, and alter nodes, as well as how to switch between different node types to refine curves and lines directly.

Activating the Shape Tool and Converting Objects

To edit nodes, select the Shape tool from the toolbox or press F10.

If you are working with standard geometric shapes like rectangles, ellipses, or text, you must first convert them into editable paths:

  1. Select the object with the Pick tool.
  2. Press Ctrl + Q (or go to Object > Convert to Curves).
  3. Switch back to the Shape tool to reveal the object's nodes and path segments.

Adding, Deleting, and Moving Nodes

Once the path is active in Shape mode, you can change its geometry:

  • Add a node: Double-click anywhere along an outline, or single-click the path and click the Add nodes (+) icon on the property bar.
  • Delete a node: Double-click directly on an existing node, or select it and press the Delete key (or use the Delete nodes (-) icon on the property bar).
  • Move a node: Click and drag the node to a new position. To constrain movement horizontally or vertically, hold Ctrl while dragging.

Changing Node Types

Nodes control how segments enter and leave an anchor point. Select a node with the Shape tool and use the property bar to switch between three primary types:

  • Cusp Nodes: Creates sharp corners. The control handles on either side of the node move independently, allowing for abrupt direction changes.
  • Smooth Nodes: Creates a flowing curve transition. The control handles remain directly opposite each other on a straight line, but their lengths can be adjusted independently to control the curve depth on either side.
  • Symmetrical Nodes: Creates balanced, mirror-like curves. The control handles are locked in the same straight line and maintain equal lengths on both sides.

Converting Segments Between Lines and Curves

You can change the path between two nodes without adding new anchor points:

  1. Click the segment between two nodes using the Shape tool.
  2. Click Convert to Curve on the property bar to bend the line using directional handles.
  3. Click Convert to Line to flatten a curved segment back into a straight vector line.

Joining and Breaking Paths

Node editing also allows you to split or merge paths:

  • Break Curve: Select a node and click the Break Curve button on the property bar. This separates the single node into two overlapping nodes, opening the path.
  • Join Nodes: Select two open end-nodes by marquee-selecting them, then click Join Two Nodes on the property bar to fuse them into a single, closed path.

Aligning and Working with Multiple Nodes

To edit complex shapes efficiently, drag a marquee selection over multiple nodes:

  • Use the Align Nodes button on the property bar to line up selected nodes along a horizontal or vertical axis.
  • Hold Shift to select multiple non-adjacent nodes manually.
  • Enable Elastic Mode on the property bar to transform multiple nodes proportionally relative to their distance from one another.