Pen Tool

Summary

This lesson introduces the Pen tool, the primary tool for creating custom vector paths in Rive. It covers the basics of placing vertices, creating curves with Bezier handles, and understanding the different vertex types (Straight, Mirrored, Detached, and Asymmetric) to achieve precise path control.

Step by Step

1. 00:12
   Activate the Tool

   Click the Pen tool in the Create Tools menu or use the shortcut P.
2. 00:21
   Placing Vertices

   Click to create a new vertex; hold Shift to snap new vertices to 45° angles.
3. 00:36
   Creating Curves

   Click and drag to pull out Bezier handles and define curves.
4. 00:49
   Closing Shapes

   Click the first vertex to close the path, then tap Enter or click "Done Editing" to finish.
5. 01:18
   Hierarchy Structure

   Understand that the "Path" lives inside a "Shape Layer," each having its own transform properties.
6. 01:32
   Adding/Deleting Points

   In edit mode, tap P again to add new points along a path or delete existing ones.
7. 01:49
   Vertex Types

   • Straight: No handles, used for sharp corners.
   • Mirrored: Handles have equal angle and length.
   • Detached: Handles have independent angles and lengths.
   • Asymmetric: Handles share the same angle but can have different lengths.
8. 03:26
   Shortcuts

   Use Cmd + Click to toggle mirrored mode, and Alt + Click handles to switch to detached mode.

Notes About Current Rive

• Edit Vertices Mode: You must be in "Edit Vertices" mode (tap Enter) to modify individual path points.
• Vertex Duplication: Hold Alt/Option and drag a vertex to create a perfect copy with the same properties.
• Corner Radius: Straight vertices can have a "Corner" property applied in the inspector to round them without manually drawing curves.