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Convert Arcs to Splines

  • Splines can be tangified with less distortion, which will give a smoother cutting path for the design. 

  • Some people prefer to draw with the Arc tool then convert to Splines (Curve) after they have finished drawing the design.

 Arc Definition

The Arc Tool tool function allows you to draw a three-point mathematically defined curve in the Trace software.

The Arc has three points: the Initial Position and the Terminating Position (which are called "anchors") and one separate Middle point (which is called a "handle") which can be moved to change the shape of the Arc.

Splines are easier to handle in the software than Arcs for tangification and the conversion process when going to the Cut Preview.

Arcs are still provided in the software for those that prefer to draw with them, but the Convert Arc to Splines process will convert them to Splines for software simplification purposes.

 Bezier/Spline/Bezier Definition

The Curve function allows you to draw a four-point mathematically defined Bezier/Spline Curve in the Trace software.

The Bezier/Spline Curve is defined by four points: the Initial Position and the Terminating Position (which are called "Anchors") and two separate Middle Points (which are called "Handles"), which can be moved to alter the shape.

Splines are easier to handle in the software than Arcs for tangification and the conversion process when going to the Cut Preview.

Arcs are still provided in the software for those that prefer to draw with them, but the Convert Arc to Splines process will convert them to Splines for software simplification purposes.

Converting Arcs to Splines

  • This displays a simple 3-Point Arc.

  • Click Edit > Convert Arc to Splines.

 Arc Definition

The Arc Tool tool function allows you to draw a three-point mathematically defined curve in the Trace software.

The Arc has three points: the Initial Position and the Terminating Position (which are called "anchors") and one separate Middle point (which is called a "handle") which can be moved to change the shape of the Arc.

  • The Arc has been converted to a Spline, or in other words, into a 4-Point Bezier Curve. 

 Bezier/Spline Definition

The Curve function allows you to draw a four-point mathematically defined Bezier/Spline Curve in the Trace software.

The Bezier/Spline Curve is defined by four points: the Initial Position and the Terminating Position (which are called "Anchors") and two separate Middle Points (which are called "Handles"), which can be moved to alter the shape.

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