Xtream Path 2: Semi Ovalization Tool

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The Semi-Ovalization tool creates half-ovals from the selected path segment. When you click on a path segment, a smooth anchor point is added in the middle of the segment and the adjoining anchor points are converted to smooth points if necessary. The half-oval flows smoothly through the three anchor points. The original segment can be curved or straight.

The Xtream Path 2 panel offers three ways to control the Semi Ovalization tool:

Free Drag
You can drag the path segment as you wish, creating a convex or concave curve. The distance dragged will be shown at the bottom of the Xtream Path 2 panel as you drag, expressed as a percent of the distance between the path's original anchor points. A negative number indicates a concave curve.

Snapping
Units Specify an increment to which the curve will "snap" as you drag. The distance between the path segment's anchor points is 100%, and you can specify a snapping distance in relation to that length.

Fixed Height
You enter a percentage of the distance between the path segment's anchor points as the diameter of the new semi-oval. Enter 100%, for example, and click on a path segment to create a semi-circle. Enter 50% and click on a path segment and the half-oval will have a 2:1 aspect ratio.

When working with a fixed height of 100%, it's simple to create basic shapes from squares and rectangles. A square rotated 45 degrees becomes a heart with two clicks or a clover leaf with four clicks.

When the Option key (Mac) or the Alt key (Windows) is depressed, the Semi Ovalization tool functions like Illustrator's Add Anchor Point tool (when over a path segment) or the Delete Anchor Point tool (when over an existing anchor point).

Example: