Marker Points

Guide to Creating and Moving Vector Object Markers

Markers are specialized, movable points or handles used in Embird Studio to define the coordinates of specific operations or effects. Unlike standard nodes, markers are not part of an object's vector contour. Markers are created and manipulated exclusively while the program is in node-editing mode - the phase used for digitizing or editing vector objects at the node level.

1. Understanding Marker Functions

Markers allow for precise control over non-contour aspects of an object, including:

Position of Tie-In Pattern: Defines the location for advanced thread anchoring at the start of an object.

Position of Tie-Off Pattern: Defines the location for advanced thread anchoring at the end of an object.

Focus of Effect: Sets the center point for effects such as circular fills or the Swirl effect in Mesh objects.

Origin of Mesh Fill: The specific point from which complex fills, such as plant patterns, originate.

Mesh object with Origin Point

Plant fill growing from the Origin Point

2. Creating (Placing) Focus and Tie-Up Markers

Markers are generally placed using a standardized workflow, typically via an object's contextual menu while in node-editing mode.

A. Focus Point Marker (e.g., Fill, Mesh)

A star-shaped marker serves as the focal point for specific effects within Fill and Mesh objects.

• Enter Node-Editing Mode: Ensure the object is active in node-editing mode.
• Invoke the pop-up menu by right-clicking.
• Place the Focus Point: Select the appropriate command from the menu to initialize the focus point marker (star icon) within the object.

B. Tie-In and Tie-Off Markers

The Tie-In and Tie-Off Markers specify the exact locations for advanced multi-directional anchoring stitches.

• Enter Node-Editing Mode: Ensure the object is active in node-editing mode.
• Invoke the pop-up menu by right-clicking.
• Place the Tie-In and/or the Tie-Off Pattern: Select the command to position the marker associated with the tie-in and/or the tie-off stitches.

Example of a Tie-In Marker. Left: Column object with a manually positioned tie-in marker. Right: Resulting stitches with the tie-in highlighted for clarity.

3. Moving Markers

After a marker has been initialized, it can be repositioned to suit the design requirements.

• Use the cursor to select the marker (the star icon for focus points or the tie-in symbol).
• Drag the marker to the desired location.
• Markers are highly flexible and may be positioned outside the object's boundaries. This allows you to strategically place effects or anchor points where they are most effective or can be easily concealed by other design elements.

Activation

To ensure a marker functions as intended, you must also activate its corresponding parameters (such as the specific effect or tie-up pattern) within the Parameters window.

Important Notes

Markers vs. Contour Nodes: It is essential to distinguish between markers (focus stars or tie-in symbols) and standard contour nodes (the points defining an object's vector geometry).

Nodes define the shape's geometric contours.

Markers define the location of internal effects or specialized embroidery functions.