Working with Vector Objects

A vector object is a computer graphic whose shape is defined by a path. The shape of a vector path is determined by points that are plotted along the path. A vector object’s stroke color follows the path. Its fill occupies the area inside the path. The stroke and fill typically determine how the graphic looks when published in print or on the web.

Macromedia Fireworks MX 2004 has many tools for drawing and editing vector objects using a variety of techniques. With the basic shape tools, you can quickly draw straight lines, circles and ellipses, squares and rectangles, stars, and any equilateral polygon with 3 to 360 sides.

You can draw freeform vector paths with the Vector Path and Pen tools. Using the Pen tool, you can draw complex shapes with smooth curves and straight lines by plotting points one by one.

Fireworks offers several methods for editing the vector objects you have drawn. You can change an object’s shape by moving, adding, or deleting points. You can use point handles to change the shape of adjacent path segments. Freeform tools let you alter the shape of objects by editing paths directly. You can also edit Auto Shapes using their predefined editing methods.

Commands on the Modify menu give you more options for editing objects, including combining objects to create a single object, creating an object from the intersection of several objects, and expanding the stroke of an object. You can also import graphics and manipulate them using these commands.