Offset vector
Generate a new path that is expanded outward or contracted inward by a fixed distance from an existing vector.
What offset vector does
Offset vector creates a new vector path that runs parallel to the original at a specified distance. Expand outward with a positive offset, or contract inward with a negative offset.
This is useful for:
- Creating borders or halos around a shape
- Building concentric shape variations
- Generating inset versions of complex paths for layered effects
Creating an offset
- Select a vector layer on the canvas.
- Find Offset Vector in the right inspector layer actions menu.
- Set the offset distance (in pixels):
- Positive value → expands outward
- Negative value → contracts inward
- Select a join style for how corners are handled:
- Miter — sharp corners extend to a point
- Round — corners are rounded
- Bevel — corners are cut flat
- Click Apply. A new vector layer is created at the offset distance.
Original vs. offset
The original vector is preserved. The offset creates a new layer. You can then:
- Style them independently
- Use boolean operations to create the gap between them
- Delete the original if you only want the offset result
Tips
- Duplicate the source vector before offsetting if you want to keep it for reference.
- Large positive offsets on sharp-cornered shapes may produce unexpected spikes at miter joins — switch to Round or Bevel join style to avoid this.
- Negative offsets on thin paths may collapse or produce artifacts. Use outline stroke on the result and check visually.