To edit shapes in Figma, you primarily use the Edit Object tool after selecting a shape layer.
Editing Shapes in Figma
Editing shapes in Figma allows you to modify the vector points and paths that define the shape, giving you precise control over its form. Based on the provided reference, the fundamental steps involve selecting the shape and entering an edit mode to manipulate its points.
Here’s how you can begin editing a shape:
- Select the Shape: First, select the shape layer you wish to edit on your canvas. This could be a rectangle, ellipse, polygon, or any other shape you've created.
- Activate Edit Mode: According to the reference from May 2, 2020, you then need to click on the Edit Object tool. This action activates a special edit mode for the selected shape.
- Modify Points: Once in edit mode, you will see the vector points (sometimes called nodes) that make up the shape. The reference states, "Click on a corner point of the shape and drag it, to modify its form." You can select these points individually or in groups and drag them to change the shape's appearance.
Basic Shape Editing Actions
Within edit mode, besides dragging points, you can often perform other actions (though not explicitly mentioned in the provided reference, these are common vector editing capabilities in Figma):
- Add New Points: Double-clicking on a path segment can add a new point.
- Delete Points: Selecting a point and pressing the Delete key removes it.
- Adjust Handles: Many points have handles (Bezier curves) that control the curvature of the path segment leading into or out of the point. You can drag these handles to refine curves.
- Change Point Type: Points can be sharp (corner), smooth (like on an ellipse), or mirrored (symmetrical handles). You can often change the point type to achieve different path behaviors.
Understanding these basic manipulations of points and paths is key to transforming simple shapes into complex illustrations or interface elements within Figma.
