Expand or Shrink Objects

Constant distance offsetting

These commands apply to objects selected with the Pointer Tool (arrow) or within the Objects Inspector.

These commands are accessible via main menu > Transform > Offset while in Selection/Transform mode.

Both Expansion and Shrinkage are constant distance offsetting functions. Offsetting refers to the process of creating a new shape or path that maintains a uniform distance from an existing shape or path at every point.

Expand Objects enlarges selected objects by offsetting their contours. It is specifically designed to create an overlay of constant width between adjacent objects. The Expand Objects command does not produce the same geometric result as standard enlargement.

Shrink Objects reduces the dimensions of selected objects by offsetting their contours. The Shrink Objects command differs from a standard size reduction. It is often used to reduce the size of a fill opening to create a precise overlay between the opening and the object that covers it.

In addition to the Amount parameter, which defines the offset distance, the expansion and shrinking functions utilize the Corner parameter. This setting determines how sharp corners are truncated or smoothed during the offsetting process.

Corner treatment (left to right): round, cut, smooth, sharp, chamfered.

Constant distance offsetting versus Basic scaling

Constant distance offsetting and basic scaling (enlargement or shrinkage) are distinct techniques for resizing vector objects. They operate using different logic and produce different visual outcomes, particularly with complex shapes and sharp corners.

Basic Enlargement or Shrinkage (Scaling)

• This method increases or decreases the size of an object uniformly from a specific point - usually the center.
• Every point along the outline moves proportionally outward or inward, preserving the object's original proportions.
• For example, a perfect circle remains a circle, and a rectangle with a 2:1 ratio maintains that exact ratio when scaled.
• Corners behave consistently - sharp corners remain sharp, and rounded ones retain their curves, with both angles and radii scaled evenly.

Constant Distance Offsetting

• Instead of scaling proportionally, this technique creates a new outline that remains a fixed distance from the original path along its entire perimeter.
• This process is comparable to drawing a border of uniform thickness around a shape.
• The resulting shape may not scale proportionally; intricate curves and corners can change significantly because the offset remains constant regardless of the local geometry.

In Embroidery Digitizing

Constant distance offsetting is particularly useful for:

• Underlay stitching: By offsetting a fill area inward, you can create a stable foundation layer that prevents fabric shifting before the main cover stitches are applied.
• Outlining: Offsetting contours is an effective way to add borders or outline stitches around complex filled shapes.
• Creating overlaps: Fabric often distorts slightly during the embroidery process. Overlaps ensure that adjacent elements remain connected in the final stitch-out, despite fabric pull.

Simple scaling is a more direct way to resize designs or individual components without altering the relationship between parts. It is useful when the goal is to grow or shrink objects evenly.