How-to

Vector Ink Path Builder Tool Tutorial: Create Custom Shapes from Paths

Introduction

Vector Ink’s Path Builder Tool lets you combine, cut, and create completely new shapes from existing paths with intuitive precision. Whether you’re crafting a complex logo or a minimal icon, this tool gives you the power of traditional shape builders — but with more control and freedom.

What You’ll Learn

  • How to combine intersecting path segments to form new shapes.
  • How to remove or isolate specific path regions for cleaner results.
  • Using sculpt and join modes for intuitive path selection.
  • Replacing, cutting out, or preserving original paths during building.
  • Coloring shapes as you create them for faster design workflows.

How the Path Builder Tool Works

The Path Builder Tool is located under the Shape Tool in the toolbar. It allows you to create new vector shapes from a group of existing ones — lines, circles, or any paths that overlap or intersect.

To get started:

  1. Select multiple shapes that you want to work with.
  2. Activate the Path Builder Tool. You’ll see your shapes become active segments.
  3. Using the Pencil, tap or drag over the areas where paths intersect to define a new shape.
  4. Switch to the Selection Tool to finalize and isolate your new shape.

Understanding Replace Modes

The Path Builder Tool offers several Replace Modes that control what happens to your original shapes when you finalize your new path:

  • Replace All — removes all selected shapes and replaces them with the new one.
  • Replace None — keeps the original shapes intact and adds the new one on top.
  • Replace Top — only replaces the topmost shape in the selection.
  • Cut Out — uses your new path to cut away sections of the selected shapes.

You can access these options in the Path Builder properties panel on the right side of the screen.

Creating Closed Shapes

When you trace or connect overlapping paths, Vector Ink automatically detects closed regions. Once a shape is fully enclosed, the tool fills it with your current color to show that it’s a complete shape.

If you want to keep your original paths, set Replace to None before finalizing — that way, your new shape will be added without deleting the source geometry.

Sculpt Mode vs. Join Mode

Sculpt Mode automatically detects nearby path intersections and intelligently includes them when you draw or trace over shapes — ideal for quick, organic selections.

Join Mode (pencil icon) lets you manually click or drag on exact path segments to include them in your shape. This mode provides more precision for fine-tuned design work.

You can switch between Sculpt, Join, and Erase using the icons in the Path Builder Tool panel.

Color as You Create

A unique advantage of the Path Builder Tool is the ability to assign fill colors as you build shapes. Before drawing, select a color from your palette. Each shape you create will automatically apply that color when finalized — allowing you to quickly visualize your design in color as you go.

Cutting and Combining Shapes

You can also use the Path Builder to cut and rebuild shapes using individual segments. For example, select one shape that overlaps others, activate the tool, and set it to Replace All to cut intersections cleanly and form new compositions. This is especially useful for logo construction or subtractive artwork.

Path Builder vs. Other Tools

Unlike traditional Shape Builder tools (such as Adobe Illustrator’s), Vector Ink’s Path Builder offers a more manual, drawing-based workflow. It’s designed to feel intuitive — like sketching shapes directly on the canvas — while giving you full control over which segments to keep, merge, or remove.

Pro Tips for Better Results

  • Work with simple base shapes first — circles, rectangles, lines — before combining.
  • Use Replace None when experimenting, so you don’t lose your originals.
  • Color as you go to visualize structure and composition.
  • Combine the Path Builder with Boolean actions for advanced hybrid workflows.

Build Custom Shapes Your Way

The Path Builder Tool is perfect for designers who want both freedom and precision. Combine paths, cut shapes, and build completely new designs in seconds. Try it now in Vector Ink and start creating custom vector artwork that stands out.

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