---
title: Using Convert to Path in LightBurn
description: Learn how to use the Convert to Path feature in LightBurn to transform built-in shapes like text, polygons, and barcodes into editable paths for precise laser design customization.
---

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# Using Convert to Path in LightBurn

## Transform Built-In Shapes into Editable Paths

The **Convert to Path** feature transforms built-in shapes, such as text, polygons, and barcodes, into editable paths consisting of lines, curves, and nodes. Once converted, these paths can be customized using the **Edit Nodes** tool, providing precise control over the design.

---

### **How to Access Convert to Path**

**![QuickRef-ConvertToPath](https://support.salasers.com/hs-fs/hubfs/QuickRef-ConvertToPath.png?width=380&height=300&name=QuickRef-ConvertToPath.png)**

#### **Location**

- **Menu:** Edit → Convert to Path
- **Context Menu:** Right-click → Convert to Path

#### **Keyboard Shortcuts**

- **Windows:** Ctrl + Shift + C
- **Mac:** Cmd + Shift + C

---

### **When to Use Convert to Path**

You must convert the following built-in shapes to paths before editing their lines, curves, or nodes:

- **Rectangles, Ellipses, and Polygons:** Required for editing shape dimensions or nodes.
- **Text Objects:** Converts letters into individual shapes for detailed customization.
- **Barcodes:** Allows the underlying path to be adjusted.

![Ref-ConvertToPath-Overview](https://support.salasers.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Ref-ConvertToPath-Overview.gif?width=548&height=326&name=Ref-ConvertToPath-Overview.gif)

---

### **Steps to Convert to Path**

1. **Select Objects:** Choose all the shapes you want to convert.
2. **Apply Conversion:** 
     - Go to **Edit → Convert to Path**,
     - Press **Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + C**, or
     - Right-click and choose **Convert to Path** from the context menu.
3. **Edit Paths:** Use the **Edit Nodes** tool to modify lines, curves, and nodes as needed. 
     - For text, each letter is now a separate, editable shape.

---

### **Post-Conversion Changes**

#### **Lost Attributes**

Once converted to a path, the object loses certain editable attributes tied to its original type. These include:

- **Rectangles, Ellipses, and Polygons:** 
    - Width and Height
    - Corner Radius (Rectangles)
    - Number of Sides (Polygons)
- **Text Objects:** 
    - Max Width
    - Text properties in the **Text Options Toolbar**
    - Variable Text substitutions
- **Barcodes:** 
    - Editable content

---

### **Troubleshooting**

1. **Grouped Objects:**
   
     - Grouped objects cannot be converted to paths.
     - Solution: **Ungroup** objects before converting.
2. **Lost Properties:**
   
     - Once converted, original properties tied to shape type (e.g., Corner Radius for Rectangles) are no longer editable.
     - Solution: Ensure all shape properties are finalized before conversion.

---

### **Conclusion**

The Convert to Path feature in LightBurn provides flexibility for customizing built-in shapes, offering detailed control over lines, curves, and nodes. However, it’s essential to finalize any shape-specific properties before conversion, as these attributes cannot be restored afterward. This tool is indispensable for advanced laser design editing.

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