How to Select, Add, and Remove Nodes in eXPerience 8 – Level Operator

This tutorial covers the fundamental techniques for editing the shape of embroidery objects using the Edit Nodes tool. By mastering node selection and modification, you can fine-tune designs, correct shapes, and customize patterns with precision.

Part 1: How to Select Nodes

Before you can edit a shape, you must select the specific nodes you wish to modify.

1. Activate the Tool: Select the Edit Nodes tool from the toolbar.
2. Select the Object: Click on the embroidery object you want to edit. The nodes (points) that make up the shape will become visible.
3. Single Selection: Click on any single node to select it.
   • Visual Cue: A selected node appears larger than unselected nodes.
   • Note: When a single node is selected, bezier handles (arrows) appear, allowing you to adjust the curvature of the segment.

Advanced Selection Methods

• Range Selection (Shift Key): To select a sequence of consecutive nodes:
  1. Click the first node.
  2. Hold down the Shift key.
  3. Click the last node in the sequence. All nodes in between will be selected.
• Toggle Selection (Ctrl Key): To select non-consecutive nodes or deselect specific ones:
  1. Hold down the Ctrl key.
  2. Click on nodes. If a node is unselected, it becomes selected. If it is already selected, it becomes unselected.
• Area Selection (Marquee): Left-click and drag your mouse to draw a rectangle around multiple nodes. All nodes inside the rectangle will be selected.
• Right-Click Menu Options: Right-click on any node to access special selection tools:
  • Select Polyline: Selects all nodes belonging to a specific part of a complex object (e.g., a single petal in a flower or one letter in a word).
  • Select All: Selects every node in the object.
  • Invert Selection: Deselects currently selected nodes and selects everything else.

Useful Tip: You can combine the Marquee (drag) method with the Ctrl or Shift keys to add or remove groups of nodes from your current selection quickly.

Part 2: How to Add New Nodes

Adding nodes gives you more control points to reshape an object, which is useful for creating complex curves or sharp corners.

Method 1: Right-Click Menu

1. Right-click on the outline of the shape where you want the new node.
2. Choose Add Node from the menu.

Method 2: Double-Click

1. Move your mouse to the specific point on the outline where you need a node.
2. Double-click the left mouse button.

Method 3: The Plus (+) Shortcut

1. Hover your mouse cursor over the desired location on the outline.
2. Press the Plus (+) key on your keyboard.

Method 4: Adding Nodes to Segments

To add a node exactly in the middle of a segment:

1. Select the node immediately before the segment you want to split.
2. Press the Plus (+) key. A new node will appear in the middle of the following segment.

Useful Tip regarding Node Types: Newly added nodes may appear as “Smooth,” “Auto-smooth,” or “Cusp” nodes depending on the surrounding geometry. If the new node isn’t behaving how you want, Right-click on it and select a different node type from the menu.

Part 3: How to Delete Nodes

Removing nodes is often necessary to simplify a shape or smooth out jagged lines.

1. Select the Node(s): Click (or use the selection methods above) to highlight the node(s) you want to remove.
2. Delete: Press the Delete key on your keyboard.
   • Alternative: Right-click the selected node and choose Delete from the menu.

Warning: Deleting nodes will alter the shape of your object. The line connecting the remaining nodes will adjust automatically, which might flatten curves or cut corners. Always review the shape after deleting to ensure the design integrity is maintained.