4 If the path is closed and you want to split it into two paths, click the path again where you want to split it. Dividing objects with the Knife tool You can divide vector objects into separate pieces using the Knife tool. The Knife tool is located in the Effects toolbar. When you drag the Knife tool, it draws a cutting path. If the cutting path divides an object into two parts, the result is two new objects. If the cutting path crosses itself, the area inside the path becomes a new object.     The Knife is similar to the Scissors tool; both tools divide vector objects. The Scissors tool divides an object with a straight line between the two points that you click. The Knife tool slices objects along a freeform cutting path. Therefore, you can use the Knife tool to cut curved edges. You can use the Knife tool on open and closed vector objects. If you slice one or more open paths, the resulting objects are open paths. If you slice an open path that crosses itself, the path separates where it crosses itself and where you slice it. To use the Knife tool:  Select the Knife tool. Drag in the docu- ment to draw a cutting path that intersects the objects you want to divide. The cutting path must intersect at least two points on an object’s perimeter. To constrain the path of the Knife tool to 45- degree increments, press Shift as you drag. Release the Shift key to drag freely. Partial cuts If you stop dragging before the cutting path intersects a second point on an object's perimeter, the cutting path appears but the object stays intact. To use this cutting path to divide the object, you can drag a second cutting path so it intersects the perimeter of the object and the first cutting path. Or, you can intersect the cutting path with other cutting paths to create a closed shape. The part of the object that falls within the closed shape becomes a separate object. Cutting holes You can cut out pieces of a vector object by drag- ging inside of the object and creating a closed path. The parts of the object that fall within the closed cutting path become separate objects. To create a closed cutting path, the path must cross itself. Gradient inks If an object’s fill ink is a gradient, and the style is Radial, Directional, Rectangular, or Elliptical, the gradient remains Knife tool …to slice an object Drag the Knife tool…
Canvas 8 Help: Drawing and editing paths (17 of 28)                                                 Page #435