Slicing Shapes with the Knife Tool in CorelDRAW

This guide provides a straightforward walkthrough on slicing vector objects using the Knife Tool in CorelDRAW. You will learn where to locate the tool, how to configure its cutting modes on the Property Bar, and the step-by-step process required to split single shapes into separate, fully closed vector paths.

1. Select the Target Vector Object

Before cutting, use the Pick Tool to select the vector shape you want to slice. If you have multiple objects, selecting the specific shape ensures that only that object is cut, leaving surrounding artwork unaffected.

2. Locate and Select the Knife Tool

  1. Navigate to the Toolbox on the left side of the workspace.
  2. Click and hold the flyout arrow on the Crop Tool group.
  3. Select the Knife Tool from the dropdown menu (or press the corresponding shortcut if configured).

3. Configure Knife Tool Settings

Once the Knife Tool is active, adjust your cutting behavior using the Property Bar at the top of the screen:

  • Cutting Modes:
    • 2-Point Line Mode: Cuts in a straight line between two points.
    • Freehand Mode: Allows you to draw an organic, hand-drawn cut line.
    • Bézier Mode: Lets you create precise, curved cuts using control handles.
  • Auto-Close on Cut: Enable this option to automatically close the cut edges, ensuring both resulting halves remain solid, fillable vector shapes rather than open paths.
  • Keep as One Object: Leave this unchecked if you want the cut pieces to immediately become distinct, independent objects.

4. Perform the Cut

  1. Position the cursor over the edge (outline) of the vector shape where you want the cut to begin. The knife icon will snap to the outline and tilt upright when positioned correctly over a node or edge.
  2. Click to establish the starting point.
  3. Drag the line across the shape to the opposite edge.
  4. Release the mouse button (or click the destination point) precisely on the opposite outline. The knife icon will tilt again to confirm the cut is complete.

5. Separate the Sliced Shapes

  1. Switch back to the Pick Tool.
  2. Click on an empty area of the canvas to deselect the artwork.
  3. Click on one of the newly cut sections and drag it away from the other piece. If "Keep as One Object" was enabled during the cut, select the object and press Ctrl + K (Break Apart) to split them into editable, standalone components.