Partial Offset
Creates one or more new lines/curves that run parallel to a chosen section
Written by Jacob Hartman
Updated at August 28th, 2026
Table of Contents
At a Glance
Creates one or more new lines/curves that run parallel to a chosen section of an existing shape's outline, offset to one side by a set distance — useful for adding a partial parallel pass without offsetting the whole shape. The section can be defined either by clicking its two end points or by clicking individual segments to include.
Parameters
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Offset | The distance of the offset from the original section (and the spacing between copies). |
| Number | How many parallel offset copies to create. |
| Left/Right | Which side of the selected section the offset is created on. |
| Round/Square | Whether the ends where the offset meets the original outline are round or square. |
| Flip Direction | Reverses direction along the selected section, flipping the sense of Left/Right. |
| Selection mode | Start/End points vs. clicking individual segments. |
Overview
Creates one or more new lines/curves that run parallel to a chosen section of an existing shape's outline, offset to one side by a set distance — useful for adding a partial parallel pass without offsetting the whole shape. The section can be defined either by clicking its two end points or by clicking individual segments to include.
Using Partial Offset
- Choose how to select the section: by its Start/End points, or by clicking individual segments to build up a selection.
- Start/End mode: click a start point, then an end point. Segment mode: click each segment to include it (click again to remove it).
- Set the Offset distance, number of copies, side, and Round/Square ends. Use Flip Direction if it's offsetting the wrong way.
- Click Apply to create the offset(s).
Selecting the Section
Use Start/End selection when the desired portion can be identified by two points along the outline. Use Segment selection when you want to build the section by clicking individual segments; clicking a selected segment again removes it.
Controlling the Offset
Set Offset and Number to control distance and copy count. Left/Right chooses the side relative to the direction of the selected section. If the side is opposite of what you expect, use Flip Direction.
Round/Square controls how the ends of the partial offset are finished where they meet the source geometry.
Result
One or more new lines/curves added to the drawing, parallel to the selected section of the original shape. The original shape is left in place.
