Convert a simple shape or mask to control points

Convert a simple shape or mask to editable control points

You can further refine the contours of a simple shape or mask by converting its outline to a complex shape (a spline with editable control points that allow you to adjust shape and curvature).

Convert a simple shape or mask

Do one of the following:

  • Select a simple shape or mask (rectangle or circle), then choose Object > Convert to Points (or press Option-Command-B).

  • In the Canvas, Control-click a simple shape or mask (rectangle or circle), then choose Convert to Points from the shortcut menu.

  • Select a simple shape or mask (rectangle or circle), then click the Convert to Points button in the Geometry pane of the Shape Inspector or in the Mask Inspector.

    If you’ve animated the curvature, radius, or size parameters, a dialog appears asking you to confirm the conversion. The animation is not retained after the shape is converted.

    Note: Animated feather values are retained when a simple shape or mask is converted.

    Shape Geometry pane showing Convert To Points button

Red control points appear on the shape or mask. For more information, see Edit control points overview.

Note: The only way to convert the complex shape back to a simple shape is to use the Undo command (Command-Z).

Edit control points on a line

There’s no “simple” shape mode for a line shape, so you don’t need to convert the line to edit its control points.

  • Double-click the line in the Canvas.

Red control points appear on both ends of the line. For more information, see Edit control points overview.