Tracing Images

Okay,
I have been following the pen tutorial by Availor. Using the shape editor tool I try tracing the image as shown but how do you maintain straight lines between click point. I end up with a lot of rounded lines at times. i understand how to drag the lines to form to shapes but when I click at a point that has a long distance the line rounds out instead of maintaining straight.
Any insight?

There are controls for the shape editor that control wether the lines you create are straight line segments or curves (see below).

I think by default it's set to curves, but if you set it to straight line segments, it'll do more like what you want.

Thanks Odat,
I feel stupid for looking over the simple and obvious.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by bmangraphix

Thanks Odat,
I feel stupid for looking over the simple and obvious.

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bmangraphix-
The "simple and obvious" is not always...
That's why you sometimes just gotta' ask!
Scott

Indeed there are a lot of subtle complexities going on with the Xara software, being as powerful as it is. There's always something you don't know! (For me, it's more or less everything :D)

I Think those two buttons stay in the same setting they where last at for any file... I typically use the attached two setting... Then I get straight line segments between points. If I need a curve, I just click on the line and drag it... Makes manually tracing anything a piece o cake...

see attached...

Here: Hold down the Ctrl AND the ALT keys simultaneously. Click your first point, drag to where you want a corner

THEN release the ALT key, and immediately repress it. Drag your next portion of the line. Continue in like manner for remaining lines.