VectorDesigner Initial Impressions
I saw a new version of VectorDesigner, so I figured I’d try it again. First, take a look at an image I made in Inkscape:
VectorDesigner claims it can import SVG, so that’s what I tried first. Here is the result:
Oops.
Editing Points
Like every other vector graphics app, VectorDesigner lets you edit individual points:
To get into this mode, you select a path and then click “Edit Path” in the toolbar. Unfortunately, it is very easy to accidentally click a few pixels away from a point, kicking you out of Edit Path mode. It requires too much mouse precision leading to pain in my mouse hand.
Sadly, I cannot determine a way to select multiple points and move them as a group. This is a feature I routinely use in other vector drawing apps, so this seems like a huge oversight.
Blurry Lines
I use “blurry lines” in almost every drawing I make. I used that technique in the avatar shown above, for instance, to make the cloud over his head. I also used that technique to create the Blue Cloud of Death.
I am unable to find a way to replicate this in VectorDesigner.
Gradients and Transparency
I also tend to use gradients and transparency quite a bit. Here is how it works in VectorDesigner:
This is a very traditional approach, with controls in a toolbar, separate from the drawing. It is functional, but uninspiring. With Xara (sadly, not available on Mac), you drag directly on the drawing when editing gradients and transparencies. The VectorDesigner approach gets the job done, but direct manipulation would be far superior.
Things I Like
Some things I like about VectorDesigner…
- The GUI is fairly clean, with minimal clutter.
- It seems to perform well, although I have not created anything complex.
- The price is right.
- It is easy to Unite, Subtract, and Intersect objects.
- I like the arrows and other line endings.
Closing Thoughts
I realize this is not a comprehensive review, but VectorDesigner lacks some features I really want. Multi-point editing is essential, as is the ability to make lines and shapes blurry. Perhaps a future release will have those features. Until then, I’ll keep looking.
Lineform is what I use. The bezier path editing isn’t as good as CorelDraw, but it’s sufficient.
http://www.freeverse.com/apps/app/?id=6020
Clearly, the graphic image at the top of this post is meant to poke fun at me personally, with my hormones all out of whack as they are– quick facial growth of hair, and yet no hair growing on top of my head, not to mention the meathead quality to the puffy face outline itself. Very funny, Burke. However, I am most offended by the glasses, which aren’t shaped like those. T
Something else to try perhaps;
http://www.inkscape.org/
Oops, nevermind; I see that you’ve already tried it. Feel free to delete the above comment.