How-to

Vector Ink Selection Tool Part 3: Mastering the Object Panel

Introduction

Organization is key to efficient vector design. In this tutorial, we’ll explore the Object Panel in Vector Ink — your go-to tool for managing layers, groups, and masks. Whether you’re arranging shapes, editing grouped items, or applying clip masks, mastering this panel will keep your workspace structured and your creative flow uninterrupted.

What You’ll Learn

  • How to change object order using Bring Forward and Send Backward
  • How to group and ungroup multiple objects
  • How to enter and exit Isolation Mode to edit grouped objects individually
  • How to apply and remove Clip Masks for creative effects

Step 1: Understanding Object Hierarchy

The Object Panel controls how items are layered on the canvas. Each shape, image, or group occupies a position in the visual stack — higher layers appear above lower ones. Use these commands to manage layer order:

  • Bring Forward: Moves the selected object up one level in the hierarchy.
  • Send Backward: Moves it down one level.
  • Bring to Front: Instantly brings the object above everything else.
  • Send to Back: Sends it behind all other elements.

These actions are perfect for rearranging overlapping elements, such as text above shapes or textures behind logos.

Step 2: Flipping and Transforming Objects

Below the layering controls are the Flip Actions. These let you quickly mirror objects horizontally or vertically. Use them for symmetrical designs, reflections, or layout variations:

  • Flip Horizontally: Creates a mirrored copy along the X-axis.
  • Flip Vertically: Mirrors along the Y-axis.

Flipping is especially helpful when designing icons, UI elements, or duplicated vector parts that require symmetry.

Step 3: Grouping and Ungrouping

Grouping objects keeps related elements together for easy movement and scaling. To create a group, select multiple shapes and tap Group. All selected items now move as one. To separate them, tap Ungroup.

Grouped items can still be edited individually using Isolation Mode — just double-tap the group to enter it. You’ll notice a light pink border indicating isolation mode. From here, select and edit any element within the group, then double-tap outside the area to exit.

Step 4: Working with Clip Masks

Clip Masks allow you to hide parts of objects within a defined shape — a must-have for creative texture and photo effects. To create one:

  1. Place your masking shape (like a star or circle) on top of the object you want to clip.
  2. Select both the shape and the target object.
  3. Tap Clip Mask from the Object Panel.

The top object becomes the mask, and everything beneath is clipped inside it. To restore the original elements, simply hit Remove Clip Mask.

Pro Tips

  • Keep it clean: Name layers or groups to stay organized when working on complex designs.
  • Lock objects: Lock background layers to avoid accidental edits while focusing on active elements.
  • Use isolation mode strategically: It’s ideal for fine-tuning small components inside grouped icons or logos.
  • Experiment with masks: Combine textures, gradients, and shapes for dynamic, layered compositions.

Conclusion

The Object Panel is the heart of your design organization in Vector Ink. From managing depth and grouping elements to experimenting with masks, it gives you precise control over every layer of your artwork.

Take a few minutes to explore the panel and practice rearranging, grouping, and masking your designs — you’ll quickly see how much smoother your workflow becomes.

Launch Vector Ink and put these techniques into action today.

Related