Map Vector Shapes to Custom Envelopes in CorelDRAW

This guide outlines the process of mapping vector shapes, text, or grouped objects to custom envelope frames in CorelDRAW. By utilizing the dedicated Envelope Docker and its target-sampling feature, you can non-destructively mold complex vector graphics into the exact boundaries of any custom-drawn silhouette or contour.

1. Prepare Your Vectors

Ensure you have two distinct elements on your canvas:

  • The Source Object: The vector artwork, text, or grouped design you want to distort. Group multiple objects together (Ctrl + G) so they deform as a single unit.
  • The Target Frame: A closed vector path (such as a custom silhouette, polygon, or drawn boundary) that will define the outer limits of the envelope.

2. Open the Envelope Docker

While the Envelope tool is accessible via the main Toolbox, custom shape mapping requires the full docker interface:

  1. Navigate to the top menu and select Effects > Envelope (or Window > Dockers > Effects > Envelope).
  2. Alternatively, press Ctrl + F7 to open the Envelope docker panel on the right side of the workspace.

3. Select the Mapping Mode

Inside the Envelope docker, select your source object and choose an appropriate deformation mode from the icons at the top:

  • Putty: Deforms the shape smoothly to fill organic, curved contours. This is the most versatile mode for irregular silhouettes.
  • Original: Stretches the object while attempting to maintain its basic corner proportions.
  • Straight Line / Single Arc: Constrains distortion along specific linear or curved paths.

4. Map the Graphic to the Target Frame

  1. Ensure your source graphic is selected.
  2. In the Envelope docker, click the Create Envelope From button (represented by an eyedropper icon pointing to a rectangle).
  3. The cursor will change into a large horizontal arrow. Click directly on the outline of your custom target frame.
  4. CorelDRAW creates a new envelope boundary that matches the target shape and immediately maps your vector artwork inside it.
  5. Click Apply in the docker if the transformation does not occur automatically.

5. Fine-Tune the Distortion

Once mapped, you can refine the output:

  • Edit Nodes: Select the Envelope Tool from the Toolbox (Press and hold the Shadow tool > Envelope) to reveal the control nodes on the perimeter and tweak curves manually.
  • Switch Mapping Options: With the object selected, change the mapping mode in the docker to see how different algorithms (such as Putty versus Original) alter the internal perspective of your design.
  • Keep Lines: Check the Keep lines box in the docker if your graphic contains straight line segments that you want to prevent from curving.
  • Clear the Envelope: If the result needs to be reset, select the graphic and click the Clear Envelope button in the docker or on the Property Bar.