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      Offset Shapes: Create Precise Outlines

      Easily Generate Inward or Outward Borders Around Shapes

      The Offset Shapes tool in LightBurn lets you create new shapes by outlining selected graphics at a specified distance. You can offset shapes inward, outward, or in both directions simultaneously, making it ideal for borders, cut lines, and decorative patterns.

      This tool works with all vector graphics, including paths, text, and Primary Shapes, and supports multiple or grouped shapes.

      QuickRef-OffsetShapes

      Where to Find Offset Shapes

      • Location: Modifiers Toolbar, Tools → Offset Shapes
      • Keyboard Shortcut:
        • Windows: Alt+O
        • Mac: Option+O
      • Quick Repeat: Hold Ctrl/Cmd and click the Offset button to apply the last-used settings without reopening the dialog.

      Ref-Offset-InModifiersToolbar

      How It Works

      1. Select Shapes: Highlight the shapes to be offset.
      2. Access the Tool: Go to Tools → Offset Shapes, click the Offset button, or press Alt/Option+O.
      3. Set Parameters in the Offset Dialog Window:
         Ref-OffsetShapes-DialogWindow
        • Offset Distance: Specify the distance between the original and new shape using a value, arrow buttons, mouse scroll, or trackpad gestures.
        • Direction: Choose the side for the offset:
          • Outward: Creates an offset away from the shape.
          • Inward: Creates an offset toward the center (only for closed shapes).
          • Both: Generates two offsets, one inward and one outward.
        • Corner Style: Choose how corners are styled:
          • Round, Bevel, or Corner. Ref-Offset-CornerStyles
            Ref-OffsetShapes-InnerOuterCornerDemo
        • Options:
          • Outer Shapes Only: Ignores inner shapes, creating an outermost border.
          • Select Resulting Objects: Automatically selects the new offset shapes.
          • Delete Original Objects: Replaces the original shapes with the offset.
          • Optimize/Simplify Results: Reduces the node count for complex objects, improving performance and file size.
      4. Preview Live Updates: Adjust settings and see changes in real-time in your Workspace.
      5. Confirm or Cancel: Click OK to apply the offset or Cancel to discard changes.

      Practical Applications

      • Create Cut Lines: Add precise borders around engravings or images for cutting.
      • Decorative Patterns: Use outward offsets for artistic embellishments.
      • Fix Broken Vectors: Run the offset tool with a 0 Distance to repair odd or broken paths.
      • Compensate for Laser Kerf: For precise fits in laser-cut parts, consider using Kerf Offset in the Cut Settings Editor.

      Ref-OffsetShapes-LiveUpdateExample

      Tips for Efficiency

      • Quick Repeat: To reuse the last offset settings without opening the dialog, hold Ctrl/Cmd and click the Offset button.
      • Layer Management: The new offset shape will automatically be added to the last-selected layer.

      The Offset Shapes tool simplifies the process of creating clean outlines and borders, enhancing your designs with precision and versatility. Use it to streamline workflows and achieve professional results in your LightBurn projects.