How to create a circular array in Vectric software | Offset and Layout Tools

Overview

This video demonstrates the Circular Copy tool in Vectric software, which creates repeating patterns by copying selected objects around a full or partial circle. It covers setting the rotation center, controlling spacing with step angle vs. total angle, rotating individual copies, and grouping the resulting array.

Steps

1. Select the object(s) to copy.
2. Open the Circular Copy tool from the Offset and Layout Tools.
3. Review the Selected Object Size – this reports the current size of the selection for reference only.
4. Set the Rotation Center:
   • Drag the pivot point manually, or
   • Enter X/Y coordinates directly (e.g., 5, 5).
5. Choose the copy method:
   • Step Angle: Divide the circle by the specified angle multiplied by the number of items.
   • Total Angle: Divide the total angle by the number of items to determine the incremental angle between copies.
6. Enter the number of copies to create.
7. Optional: Enable Rotate Copies so each copy rotates as it is placed around the circle.
8. Optional: Enable Group Copies to group all copies into a single object.
9. Click Copy to generate the array.

Key Points / Warnings

• The Selected Object Size values are informational, but can be copied and pasted into calculations.
• The Rotation Center is the pivot point around which objects are rotated. It updates relative to the object when the object is moved; reposition it manually or re-enter coordinates if needed.
• Step Angle = each copy is placed at that angle increment; Total Angle = the total arc is divided equally among all copies.
• Without Rotate Copies, all copies maintain the original orientation (e.g., a star’s top point stays vertical).
• With Rotate Copies, each copy rotates progressively as it goes around the center.
• Group Copies produces one grouped object (solid selection outline). Without grouping, each copy is individually selectable (dashed outline).