How to Use the Twirl Tool in CorelDRAW

The Twirl tool in CorelDRAW allows designers to add dynamic spiral and swirl distortions directly to the outlines of vector paths and objects. This guide provides a straightforward walkthrough on how to locate the tool, configure its settings on the Property Bar—such as nib size, rate, and rotation direction—and apply it to vector curves to create customized, fluid graphics.

1. Prepare Your Vector Path

Before applying the distortion, ensure your object is ready:

  • Select the object using the Pick tool.
  • If working with basic primitives (like a rectangle, ellipse, or text), convert the object to curves by pressing Ctrl + Q (Windows) or Command + Q (Mac), or by selecting Object > Convert to Curves. The Twirl tool requires editable vector nodes to function.

2. Select the Twirl Tool

  1. Navigate to the toolbox on the left side of the workspace.
  2. Click and hold the flyout arrow on the Shape tool (or the current active shape-editing tool).
  3. Select the Twirl tool from the flyout menu.

3. Adjust the Tool Settings

With the Twirl tool selected, adjust its behavior using the Property Bar at the top of the screen:

  • Nib Size: Defines the radius of the twirl effect. Adjust the value to cover the portion of the path you want to distort.
  • Rate of Twirl: Controls the speed and intensity of the rotation when clicking and holding the mouse button.
  • Counterclockwise / Clockwise Twirl: Choose between the two direction icons to set the rotational direction of the swirl.
  • Pen Pressure: If using a graphics tablet, toggle this option to control the rate or nib size dynamically through stylus pressure.

4. Apply the Twirl Effect

  • Static Twirl: Position the cursor over the edge or outline of your vector object. Click and hold the left mouse button. The path will continuously rotate into a spiral at the center of the brush nib until you release the button.
  • Dynamic / Dragged Twirl: Click and drag the nib along the edge of the vector path to create elongated, wave-like spirals along the boundary of the object.

5. Final Adjustments

Once the effect is applied, you can switch back to the Shape tool (F10) to manually edit the newly created nodes and handles, or press Ctrl + Z to undo and reapply the effect with a different nib size or twirl rate.