Bend Tool

The Bend Tool transforms straight path segments into smooth curves by adding bezier handles. It's an essential tool for refining shapes and creating organic curves from geometric paths.

Activating the Bend Tool

• Select a path and enter edit mode (double-click)
• Choose the Bend Tool from the toolbar

How It Works

The Bend Tool adds bezier control handles to straight segments:

1. Click on any straight segment of a path
2. Drag to pull the segment into a curve
3. The tool automatically creates symmetric handles
4. Release to set the curve

Bending Techniques

• Simple Bend - Click and drag on segment center
• Asymmetric Curve - Hold Alt/Option while dragging
• Precise Control - Use the Properties panel to enter exact handle values

Modifier Keys

• Shift - Constrain bend to 45° angles
• Alt/Option - Create asymmetric handles
• Cmd/Ctrl - Temporarily switch to Direct Selection

Converting Back to Straight

To remove curves and return to straight segments:

• Select the curved point with the Direct Selection tool
• Right-click and choose "Make Straight"
• Or double-click the point to toggle between curved and straight

Common Use Cases

• Organic Shapes - Convert rectangles to blobs
• Smooth Corners - Add curves to angular shapes
• Path Refinement - Adjust imported SVG paths
• Icon Design - Create smooth icon silhouettes

Tips

• Start with the Pen Tool for initial paths, then refine with Bend
• The Bend Tool preserves the overall path shape while adding curvature
• Combine with the Cut Tool to add more control points before bending
• Use Undo (Cmd/Ctrl + Z) to experiment freely