How-to

Vector Ink Copy Tool Tutorial | Duplicate Objects in Lines, Grids & Paths

Introduction

Repetition is a key element in creating balanced, structured, and efficient designs. With the Copy Tool in Vector Ink, you can quickly duplicate any object in rows, grids, or along a custom path — perfect for creating patterns, badges, icons, and more. In this tutorial, we’ll cover every feature of the Copy Tool so you can streamline your workflow and design smarter.

What You’ll Learn

  • How to copy objects in a linear row or column
  • How to duplicate objects into a grid layout
  • How to copy objects precisely along a path
  • How to control spacing, count, angle, and distribution

Step 1: Creating an Object to Copy

Start by placing a simple object on your canvas — for example, a square using the Rectangle Tool. Give it a fill color using the Color Panel to make it easier to see your duplicates. Once your object is ready, select the Copy Tool located between the Ribbon and Corner tools in the toolbar.

Step 2: Copying Objects Around a Point

When the Copy Tool activates, Vector Ink will automatically create a few duplicates of your object arranged around a small circular anchor. You can drag this anchor point anywhere on the canvas to control how the copies are distributed.

Use the Number of Copies input to increase or decrease the total duplicates. Adjust Scale to make each copy smaller or larger in sequence, and modify the Angle to control how far the copies rotate around the anchor — for example, 180° creates a half-circle, while 360° forms a full loop.

Step 3: Distributing Copies in Rows or Columns

Switch the Distribute mode from “Around Point” to Left to Right or Top to Bottom. This arranges your copies in a clean horizontal or vertical line. You can then adjust:

  • Number of Copies — how many objects to create
  • Spacing — the distance between each duplicate

This is ideal for creating repeating icons, text backgrounds, or button rows with perfect spacing.

Step 4: Creating Grid Layouts

For structured layouts, select the Grid mode. This allows you to define the number of Rows and Columns as well as the Spacing X and Spacing Y between them. Vector Ink will automatically generate a perfect grid of duplicates — perfect for tiled patterns, layouts, and modular design elements.

Step 5: Copying Objects Along a Path

One of the most powerful features of the Copy Tool is the On Path option. To use it:

  1. Draw a path using the Pen Tool or Draw Tool.
  2. Place your target object (like a shape or icon) on the canvas.
  3. Select both the path and object, then activate Target Selection and tap the object to define it as the one to duplicate.
  4. Switch to the Copy Tool and choose On Path.

Now your selected object will be distributed perfectly along the curve or line. You can control the number of copies, rotation angle, and spacing for smooth, evenly placed repetition. The Offset option adjusts where the pattern begins on the path, while Distance moves the copies closer to or farther from the path’s line — even creating mirrored rows on each side.

Step 6: Experimenting with Distance and Inner Offsets

The Distance property lets you move duplicates outward or inward relative to the path, while the Inner Offset slider gives you a mirrored set of copies for layered or wrapped effects. You can use this for unique decorative designs, curved text effects, or repeating motifs around circular logos.

Pro Tips

  • Start simple — experiment with squares, circles, or stars before moving to complex shapes.
  • Use even spacing (like 10px or 20px) for cleaner layouts.
  • Combine the Copy Tool with Align and Arrange panels for professional structure.
  • Try the “On Path” mode with curves to design waves, ornaments, or patterned borders.

Conclusion

The Copy Tool in Vector Ink is an incredible time-saver for repetitive layouts and creative patterns. From simple rows to complex path-based duplication, it helps you design faster while maintaining precision and consistency.

Ready to bring your ideas to life? Try building your own repeating patterns or curved layouts today —

Launch Vector Ink and explore the power of the Copy Tool for yourself.

Related