How do I Merge Shapes in CorelDraw?

To merge shapes in CorelDraw, you primarily use either the Combine or Weld features. Here's how to use each:

Using the Combine Feature

The Combine feature merges selected objects into a single object with a common fill and outline. Any overlapping areas will become "holes."

Select the objects: Use the Pick tool to select all the shapes you want to combine. You can do this by clicking and dragging a selection box around them, or by holding down the Shift key and clicking each shape individually.
Combine the objects: Go to Object > Combine. Alternatively, you can often find a "Combine" button on the property bar when multiple objects are selected.
- Result: The overlapping areas become transparent "holes," and all objects take on the fill and outline properties of the last selected object (or the first object created, if selection order is irrelevant).

The Weld feature joins objects together to create a single object by essentially melting the outlines together.

Select the objects: Use the Pick tool to select all the shapes you want to weld. You can select multiple objects by clicking and dragging a selection box around them, or by holding down the Shift key and clicking each shape individually.
Weld the objects: Go to Object > Shaping > Weld. This might also be available as a "Weld" button on the property bar, depending on your version of CorelDraw and the workspace setup.
- Result: The outlines of the shapes merge, creating a single, continuous outline. The resulting object takes on the fill and outline of the last selected object (or the object at the top of the stacking order).

Feature	Description	Result	When to Use
Combine	Creates a single object with common attributes. Overlapping areas become holes.	Object with holes where overlaps occurred.	When you want to create cutouts or transparent areas within the merged shape. Good for creating stencil-like effects.
Weld	Joins the outlines of the objects together.	Single object with a continuous outline.	When you want to create a new shape from the combined outlines of the original shapes. Useful for creating complex shapes from simpler ones.

Let's say you have two overlapping circles.

Combine: The overlapping area between the circles will become transparent. The resulting object will look like two intersecting circles with the intersection missing.
Weld: The circles will merge into a single, rounded shape that resembles a figure-eight or a peanut, depending on the degree of overlap.