Layout and Design
      Back to home
      1. SA Laser Knowledge Base
      2. Tools & Features
      3. Layout and Design

      Using the Distribute and Move Together Tools in LightBurn

      Align, Space, and Arrange Objects with Precision

      QuickRef-Distribute

      What Are the Distribute and Move Together Tools?

      • Distribute Tools: Evenly space selected objects either horizontally or vertically, based on their edges or centers.

      Ref-Distribute-DistributeDropdown

      • Move Together Tools: Align selected objects edge-to-edge along horizontal or vertical planes.

      Ref-Distribute-ToolsInArrangeToolbar

      Location

      • Arrange Toolbar: Distribute and Move Together tools.
      • Menu Path: Arrange → Distribute

      Distribute Tools

      How They Work:

      The Distribute tools take the average of the current spacing between objects and adjust them to create even spacing.

      Options:

      1. Distribute Vertically:

        • V-Spaced UI-Distribute-VSpaced : Equalizes the distance between the edges of objects along the vertical axis.
        • V-Centered UI-Distribute-VCentered : Equalizes the distance between the center points of objects vertically.

        Ref-Distribute-Vertically

      2. Distribute Horizontally:

        • H-Spaced UI-Distribute-HSpaced : Equalizes the distance between the edges of objects along the horizontal axis.
        • H-Centered UI-Distribute-HCentered : Equalizes the distance between the center points of objects horizontally.

      Ref-Distribute-Horizontally

      Notes on Spacing

      • Positive vs. Negative Spacing:
        • If objects overlap initially (negative spacing), the resulting distribution may also include overlaps.
        • When objects of varying sizes are distributed by their centers, overlaps may occur despite even spacing.

      Ref-Distribute-NegativeSpacing

      Move Together Tools

      How They Work:

      Move Together tools align selected objects edge-to-edge along either horizontal or vertical planes, eliminating gaps or overlaps.

      Ref-Distribute-MoveHVTogetherInArrangeMenu

      Options:

      1. Move H Together:

        • Shortcut: Alt/Option + Shift + H
        • Aligns objects so their horizontal edges abut along vertical planes.
        • The last-selected object remains stationary, anchoring the arrangement.
        Ref-Distribute-MoveHTogether

      2. Move V Together:

        • Shortcut: Alt/Option + Shift + V
        • Aligns objects so their vertical edges abut along horizontal planes.
        • The last-selected object remains stationary.

      Ref-Distribute-MoveVTogether

      Practical Applications

      • Organized Layouts: Distribute tools are ideal for creating evenly spaced arrangements in designs.
      • Edge-to-Edge Alignment: Move Together tools help align objects without gaps, perfect for box layouts or grid patterns.
      • Precise Adjustments: Use these tools to ensure professional-looking results with minimal effort.

      Tips for Best Results

      1. Anchor Objects with Selection Order:
        The last-selected object anchors the arrangement for both Distribute and Move Together tools.

      2. Avoid Overlaps:
        Be mindful of object sizes and spacing when using the Distribute tools to prevent unintended overlaps.

      3. Keyboard Shortcuts:
        Memorize hotkeys for quicker alignment and distribution.

      By mastering the Distribute and Move Together tools, you can streamline your design process, ensuring precise spacing and alignment for polished, professional results.