Master Boolean Operations and Welding for Complex Shape Creation
The Boolean Tools in LightBurn allow you to combine or modify shapes to create complex vector designs. These tools include:
- Boolean Union: Merges shapes.
- Boolean Subtract: Removes one shape from another.
- Boolean Intersection: Creates a shape from overlapping areas.
- Weld: Combines multiple shapes into a single object.
Each tool serves a specific purpose, enabling advanced design techniques for your projects.
Where to Find Boolean Tools
- Location: Modifiers Toolbar, Tools Menu
- Keyboard Shortcuts:
- Boolean Union: Alt/Option++
- Boolean Subtract: Alt/Option+-
- Boolean Intersection: Alt/Option+*
- Weld: Ctrl/Cmd+W
How Boolean Tools Work
Important Notes:
- Closed Shapes Only: All selected shapes must be closed (continuous loops). Open shapes will disable Boolean tools.
- Vectors Only: Boolean tools do not work with images.
- Two-Shape Limit: Boolean operations require exactly two shapes or groups. For more than two shapes, use Weld instead.
- Grouping Matters: Grouping shapes can change how Boolean tools behave, treating groups as single objects.
Boolean Operations
Boolean Union 
Shortcut: Alt/Option++
- Purpose: Combines two shapes into one unified object.
- Example: Use Union to merge overlapping shapes into a single path.
Boolean Subtract 
Shortcut: Alt/Option+-
- Purpose: Removes the second selected shape from the first and deletes it.
- Tip: Selection order matters. If the wrong shape is subtracted, undo and reverse the selection order.
Boolean Intersection 
Shortcut: Alt/Option+*
- Purpose: Creates a new shape from the overlapping area of two shapes.
- Example: Use Intersection to extract shared regions of two overlapping objects.
Weld 
Shortcut: Ctrl/Cmd+W
- Purpose: Combines multiple shapes into one, similar to Union but supports more than two shapes.
- Example: Use Weld to combine overlapping text or shapes into a single cohesive object.
Boolean Assistant
For beginners or complex designs, the Boolean Assistant provides a preview of all Boolean operations:
- Access: Tools → Boolean Assistant or Ctrl/Cmd+B.
- Features:
- Displays live previews of each Boolean operation.
- Allows you to reset shapes or confirm the desired operation.
- Simplifies decision-making for the best result.
Weld vs. Boolean Union
When to Use Weld:
- For combining multiple shapes simultaneously.
- Ideal for basic overlap operations.
When to Use Boolean Union:
- When inner shapes (like text within a ring) need to remain intact.
- Grouping related shapes before using Union ensures a correct result.
Practical Applications
- Advanced Vector Designs: Combine shapes to create intricate designs.
- Text Integration: Use Union or Weld for text in logos or patterns.
- Subtractive Design: Remove sections of one shape using Subtract for precision cuts.
Hotkeys for Boolean Tools
| Action | Hotkey |
|---|---|
| Boolean Union | Alt/Option++ |
| Boolean Subtract | Alt/Option+- |
| Boolean Intersection | Alt/Option+* |
| Weld | Ctrl/Cmd+W |
Mastering Boolean Tools and Weld will elevate your design capabilities in LightBurn, allowing for precise and efficient creation of complex vector shapes.