Moho Forum

Is there any way to take two separate vector shapes that are on the same layer and merge them so that they are one object. I have two overlapping outlines, which were separate for a reason, but now I need them to be one object. I'm thinking of the Unite tool in Illustrator that allows you to make one object out of several and I wonder if there's a way to do that in ASPro. I'm using a Mac, in case it's relevant.

thanks,
Jack

There is no merge tools or "boolean" tools in AS. If you absolutely must merge the shapes the technique I use in those cases is too add points around the overlapping join areas then break the paths and reconnect those spots.

Yes this is more work, and yes you will have to recreate the fill and stroke shapes but it isn't totally awful.

The biggest trouble is when "joining" shapes with few points. Because of how AS curves work adding a point in the middle of a long curve like a perfect circle that only has 4 points, will distort the shape. You will have to make adjustments in those areas by adding and moving points.

This will be frustrating if you are use to AI behavior. AS is NOT AI and has a completely different way of drawing. But if you master this behavior you can do nearly anything.

-vern

Thanks, vern. I kind of figured I'd have to do it that way. It's a little work, but not all that much, I guess. I wonder if this could be done with a script, similar to the Split Curve script, that would add the points in the overlapping areas and then combine the shapes? Might be too much to ask of a script.

thanks,
Jack

The script aspect has been brought up. The trouble is determining the shape after the merge since extra points need to be added and points need to be moved to maintain the shape which will never be exactly the same as the original.

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Here's another tip that works GREAT for this type of merging.

When joining those shapes, don't connect them "directly". For instance, if you were creating a crescent moon from two circles:



Don't try to connect the tips of the crescent. Leave the dangly points on one side of the shape (I used the "split curve..." script to increase the points for the circles). Then connect the points of the other shape and extend them to maintain the curvature of the circles curve.

This works very well in many situations and you still have one connected shape.

-vern

Great tip! I'll give that a try, too.

Jack