Using a mask to split vector objects

This page explains how to use the mask technique in Embird Studio NEXT to split vector objects for creating intricate, multi-colored embroidery designs. By employing Shaping operations like Intersection and Difference with a temporary mask object, users can divide a single object into multiple segments with precise overlaps, ensuring a high-quality sew-out without gaps. This method offers an efficient alternative to manual digitizing of each segment.

The Temporary Mask Object

The mask concept allows you to adjust one object using another object that serves to trim or intersect the first object. The mask defines which parts of the original object will remain and which parts will be deleted.

The mask effect can be achieved by using the Shaping operations Intersection and Difference.

Fig. 1. Ring with multi-color segments.

Imagine that we want to create a ring with multi-color segments as illustrated in Picture 1. Instead of digitizing each segment manually, we will create the whole ring first and then split it using another object.

Fig. 2

The Yellow Parts

The first step is to create a large ring. We will use a fill object with an opening (hole) in this example.

Fig. 3

The next step is to draw an object that will serve as a mask for splitting. The ring will be sliced at the places where the mask runs over the top of the ring (highlighted with thick lines). Therefore, the mask edges must be drawn carefully at the intersection with the ring. In other places, you can draw it with less accuracy.

In this example, we use a fill object as a mask. A mask can be any object (sfumato, column) except lines (outline, connection, manual stitches). The mask will have no stitches; it is only a temporary object. Therefore, it does not matter where its start and end point are or how its parameters are set. A mask can even have one or several openings (holes).

Fig. 4

Select both objects (the ring and the mask object).

Use the main menu > Build > Shaping > Difference command to create new objects that represent the ring area minus the mask area.

The resulting objects are shown in Picture 5.

Fig. 5

Note: Shaping commands do not work with linear objects like outlines, connections, or manual stitches.

The Red Parts

Now we are going to create complementary objects to fill the empty areas. We will use another shaping command to produce these objects.

Before doing so, we need to enlarge the mask to make the new objects larger and overlapping the previously created objects. This step is very important because if there is no overlap between the objects, the pull effect of the thread will cause gaps in the actual sew-out.

Select the mask object and use the main menu > Transform > Offset > Expand Objects command.

Fig. 6

Now select the original ring and the new, larger mask. Use the main menu > Build > Shaping > Intersection command to create areas that are common to both the ring and the mask.

Fig. 7

You should achieve objects that are complementary to the yellow objects created above. Change their color to red by dragging the red color from the palette to the selected objects. Now you should erase the original ring and mask objects, because they are still in the background. They were only temporary objects, and we do not need them anymore.

Result

The resulting design has overlays between adjacent areas of different colors.

Fig. 8. Complete result.

Fig. 9. Overlays between the adjacent areas.

The respective segments are separate objects, and it is useful to connect some objects (not shown in this example) with the connection tool to reduce thread trimming. As the yellow color is sewn first in this case, connections between the yellow objects can be hidden beneath the red objects.

Note: Objects in Studio can also be sliced with guide lines. However, this approach produces only a straight-line cut.