How to distort objects in Vectric software | Transforming Objects

Overview

This video explains how to use the Distort Selected Objects tool in Vectric Aspire V12. It covers envelope-based distortion of vectors, node editing within the distortion environment, and applying distortion along one or two curves. The tool also supports 3D components in Aspire.

Steps

1. Select the object to distort, e.g. a shield shape.
2. Open the Distort Selected Objects tool.
3. Choose whether to use the rotated bounds or the standard bounding box:
   • With a rotated object, enabling Use Rotated Bounds applies the envelope to the object’s actual rotated orientation.
4. Click Apply to create the distortion envelope.
5. Drag the envelope nodes with the left mouse button to distort the shape.
6. Optionally enter node editing mode to refine the shape:
   • Right-click a node to convert it to a Bezier or arc.
   • Insert additional nodes and adjust handles for more control.
   • Delete unwanted nodes.
7. Exit node editing mode by right-clicking and selecting exit, pressing N, or pressing Escape.
8. Use the Edit Envelope options:
   • Transform Object – rotate, stretch, or scale the distorted object using transform handles.
   • Edit Envelope – node-edit the envelope directly.
9. Use Bake Distortion to permanently apply the current distortion to the object. This allows further node editing or a new distortion to be applied on top.
10. For curve-based distortion:
    • Select the object, hold Shift, and click a curve.
    • Choose Above Single Curve and click Apply to distort the object along that curve.
    • Or select two curves and use Between Two Curves.
11. If the result is upside down or misaligned, check the start points of the curves. Right-click a curve near the desired start location and choose Make Start Point, then retry.

Key Points / Warnings

• The Use Rotated Bounds option is important for rotated objects; otherwise the envelope may not match the object’s orientation.
• Distortion can dramatically change the look of a vector or object, e.g. making a shield appear tilted in perspective.
• Node editing within the distortion tool allows inserting, deleting, and converting nodes to arcs or Beziers for custom shapes.
• Bake Distortion permanently applies the current envelope; without baking, the distortion remains a temporary envelope transformation.
• When using Above Single Curve or Between Two Curves, vector start point direction determines the orientation of the distorted object.
• The same tool can be used to distort 3D components imported into Aspire, such as clip art or 3D models.