Vector edit mode
Enter vector edit mode to directly manipulate the anchor points and paths of a vector layer.
Entering vector edit mode
Vector edit mode reveals the underlying anchor points and path segments of a vector layer so you can modify the shape directly.
To enter vector edit mode:
- Double-click a vector layer on the canvas, or
- Select the layer and press Enter.
When in vector edit mode, the toolbar changes to show vector-specific tools, and the layer's anchor points appear as small squares on the canvas.
What you can do in vector edit mode
| Action | How |
|---|---|
| Select a point | Click the anchor point |
| Move a point | Drag or use arrow keys |
| Add a point | Click on a path segment |
| Delete a point | Select it and press Delete |
| Change anchor type | Right-click the point |
| Adjust curve handles | Drag the bezier handles |
| Draw new segments | Continue clicking to extend an open path |
Exiting vector edit mode
- Press Escape to exit and return to the selection tool.
- Click outside the layer to deselect and exit.
Tips
- Zoom in (⌘+) before editing small or densely packed paths for more precise control.
- Inside vector edit mode, press Q to toggle lasso selection for anchor points.
- Fewer anchor points produce smoother, cleaner paths. Use Simplify vector after complex edits.
- Duplicate the vector layer first if you want to preserve the original shape while experimenting.
- Exit vector edit mode before repositioning the entire layer — in edit mode, dragging moves individual points, not the layer.