Pen Tool Overview

Myrna Ailabouni

Updated November 27, 2024 12:00

You can use the VStitcher pen tool to draw lines and shapes on pieces in the 2D or 3D window. When drawing garment pieces, you use the 2D window.

The tool behaves in a similar fashion to pen tools in vector based illustration programs.

Using the Pen Tool

To use the pen tool, on the Main toolbar, click Pen.

Once you have selected the pen tool, you can draw a line, shape, or piece.

Result	Do This
To draw a straight line:	Click to create the first point. Click to create the second point. A line is displayed. Note Press Shift while drawing the line to restrict it to a multiple of 45°. Continue to click to add further straight lines.
To draw a curved line:	Click to create the first point. Click where you want your curve to end and hold down the left mouse button. Drag to curve the line.
To draw a shape:	You draw a shape on top of a garment piece. Draw the lines to form your shape. Ensure you close the shape. To close the shape, hover on the last point until the cursor changes from to , and click.
To end a line:	Press Esc.
To draw a piece:	On the Horizontal contextual menu, ensure Pieces is selected. In the 2D window, draw the lines to form your piece. Ensure you close the piece. To close the piece, hover on the last point until the cursor changes from to , and click.

For more information, refer to Pen Tool Options.

You can use the pen tool to connect two internal lines which are both inside the same pattern piece

To use the pen tool to connect two internal lines:

On the Main toolbar, click Select.
In the 2D window, select one of the lines to be connected.
On the Main toolbar, click Pen.
In the 2D window, use the pen tool to draw a line from one internal line end point to another.

The lines are connected. The following image shows the joining of two internal lines.

You can use the same technique to connect the two ends of a non-straight internal line. The following image shows the joining of the two ends of a non-straight internal line.

You can use the free brush tool to draw freehand lines in the 2D window, or on pieces in the 3D window.

To use the free brush tool: