How Do You Make Curves in Edit Mode in Blender?

In Blender, creating curves in Edit Mode generally refers to editing existing curves or converting mesh elements to curves, rather than inherently "making" them from scratch directly within Edit Mode. Here's how you can achieve these effects:

Editing Existing Curves in Edit Mode

1. Select the Curve Object: In Object Mode, select the curve object you wish to edit.

2. Enter Edit Mode: Press Tab to switch from Object Mode to Edit Mode. You'll now see the control points (vertices) of the curve.

3. Manipulate Control Points:

   • Selection: Use right-click to select individual control points, or A to select all.
   • Transformation: Use G (grab/move), R (rotate), and S (scale) to transform the selected control point(s).
   • Handle Manipulation: Curves have handles extending from their control points, which dictate the curve's shape. Select a handle (it appears as a line extending from the point) and use G, R, or S to adjust it.
   • Adding Control Points: Select two or more control points, then right-click and choose "Subdivide" to add a new control point between them. Alternatively, select a single control point and press E to extrude a new point connected to it.
   • Deleting Control Points: Select the control point(s) and press X or Delete to delete them.

4. Curve Specific Options: In the sidebar (press N if it's not visible), under the "Item" tab, you can adjust the position and properties of individual control points. In the "Curve" tab, you can change the overall curve properties. Common settings include:

   • Resolution: Controls the smoothness of the curve. Higher resolution = smoother curve, but more geometry.
   • Shape: Changes the curve type (Bezier, NURBS, etc.) and can affect the available options.

Converting Mesh to Curves in Edit Mode

While technically not "making" a curve from scratch in edit mode, you can convert edges of a mesh into a curve and then edit it:

1. Select Mesh Edges: In Edit Mode, select the edge(s) of the mesh you want to convert to a curve.
2. Convert to Curve: Press Shift + Ctrl + Alt + C and choose "Curve From Mesh/Text". Alternatively, go to Object > Convert > Curve from Mesh/Text.
3. Edit Converted Curve: You will be switched to object mode with the new curve object already selected. Then return to edit mode (Tab Key) and you can edit the curve's control points as described above.

Example:

Imagine you have a plane. In edit mode, select one of its edges. Convert it to a curve using the steps above. You now have a straight line curve that you can manipulate by adding control points, moving handles, and adjusting its resolution to create a smooth, curved line.

Summary

Making curves in Edit Mode primarily involves editing existing curves or converting mesh elements into curves. Mastering the manipulation of control points, their handles, and the curve-specific options in the properties panel is key to shaping your curves precisely.