- #30 using Vector tools
- #31 Using Shapes as Image Elements
- #32 Understanding the Transform Tools
- #33 Using the Transform Tools
- #34 Distortion-free Scaling with the 9-Slice Scaling Tool
- #35 Creating a Custom Shape
- #36 Understanding the Pen Tool
- #37 Masking an Image with a Vector Shape
- #38 Using the Auto Vector Mask for Quick Fades
This chapter is from the book
This chapter is from the book
This chapter is from the book
#33 Using the Transform Tools
The Scale tool enlarges or reduces a selected object (proportionately, if dragged from a corner).
The Skew tool acts like a perspective tool if you drag the object (bitmap or vector) from a corner, or it skews the image if you drag from a center control handle. In both cases, two control points are affected at the same time.
The Distort tool only drags one corner at a time. You can have a lot of fun with this tool, as evidenced in Figure 33a. Using Distort, you can create a forced perspective not only on a vector shape, but also on type!
Select a shape (the rectangle shape from Technique #31 is a fine image to work with) and choose the Distort tool (press Q on the keyboard to toggle through the Transform tools).
Notice the black bounding box that appears around the object.
- Drag from a corner to pull the shape’s corner with the cursor.
- Drag the bottom-right corner down and the bottom-left corner upward to get a shape similar to the figure shown.
- Double-click to commit the changes.
- Select a fairly bold font and type a word.
- Adjust the font size as desired, and then go back to the Distort tool.
Drag the bottom-right corner down as you did with the shape. You may want to drag the bottom-left corner up a bit to force the perspective even more.
Despite the distortion, the text remains editable (Figure 33b).
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Figure 33a The Distort tool can create exaggerated perspective in a vector or a bitmap.
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Figure 33b Text can also be distorted and remain editable.