Chapter 3: Working With Vector Objects; Drawing Vector Objects - MACROMEDIA FIREWORKS MX 2004-USING FIREWORKS Use Manual

A vector object is a computer graphic whose shape is defined by a path. The shape of a vector path
is determined by points that are plotted along the path. A vector object's stroke color follows the
path. Its fill occupies the area inside the path. The stroke and fill typically determine how the
graphic looks when published in print or on the web.
Macromedia Fireworks MX 2004 has many tools for drawing and editing vector objects using a
variety of techniques. With the basic shape tools, you can quickly draw straight lines, circles and
ellipses, squares and rectangles, stars, and any equilateral polygon with 3 to 360 sides.
You can draw freeform vector paths with the Vector Path and Pen tools. Using the Pen tool, you
can draw complex shapes with smooth curves and straight lines by plotting points one by one.
Fireworks offers several methods for editing the vector objects you have drawn. You can change an
object's shape by moving, adding, or deleting points. You can use point handles to change the
shape of adjacent path segments. Freeform tools let you alter the shape of objects by editing paths
directly. You can also edit Auto Shapes using their predefined editing methods.
Commands on the Modify menu give you more options for editing objects, including combining
objects to create a single object, creating an object from the intersection of several objects, and
expanding the stroke of an object. You can also import graphics and manipulate them using
these commands.

Drawing vector objects

Fireworks has many tools for drawing vector objects. With these you can draw basic shapes,
freeform paths, and complex shapes by plotting points one by one. You can also draw Auto
Shapes, which are vector object groups that have special controls for adjusting their attributes.
Drawing basic lines, rectangles, and ellipses
You can use the Line, Rectangle, or Ellipse tool to draw basic shapes quickly. The Rectangle tool
draws rectangles as grouped objects. To move a rectangle corner point independently, you must
ungroup the rectangle or use the Subselection tool. To draw a basic rectangle with beveled,
chamfered, or rounded corners, see the following procedure. To draw a Auto Shape rectangle with
rounded corners, see
on page 59.
Working with Vector Objects
"Adjusting beveled, chamfered, and rounded rectangle Auto Shapes"
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