Parameters

This tool does not require configuration parameters. It works interactively based on the path drawn across contours.

Shortcuts

• Left Click:
  • First click sets the start point of the cutting line.
  • Second click completes the line and performs the cut on intersected contours.
• Right Click:
  • Exits the Cut By Line Tool.
  • Can be used to switch to the Node Edit Tool to further inspect or manipulate cuts.

How to Use the Cut By Line Tool

1. Activate the Tool
   Click the Cut By Line icon to enable the tool. A cursor with a live orange preview line will appear.
2. Make a Cut
   • Click once in the workspace to begin drawing the cut line.
   • Drag across one or more contours. When you're satisfied with the path, click again to complete the cut.
   • Any contour intersected by the line will be split at the intersection points.
3. Exit the Tool
   • Right-click to exit Cut By Line mode.
   • You’ll see the affected contours are now separate, closed contours if the line fully crossed them.
4. Partial Cuts & Open Contours
   • If you only partially cross a contour, it may appear unchanged.
   • Use the Node Edit Tool to reveal that the contour has been split into an open contour.
   • Open contours can then be separated or edited as needed.

The Cut By Line Tool is ideal for quickly breaking down complex shapes into manageable sections or creating openings in otherwise closed paths.