Draw, trace and export vectors

Use vector layers for editable shapes and paths. A displayed SVG image and an SVG imported as editable geometry are different things.

Start with a shape

1. Select Primary before changing shared geometry.
2. Open the shape tool's submenu in the bottom toolbar and choose a shape.
3. Draw it on the canvas, then use the vector controls to edit its points, curves, fill or stroke.
4. For an existing SVG, use the editable SVG import flow and review its diagnostics before inserting the result.

The importer supports a defined SVG subset. Complex filters, masks, embedded content or unsupported styles may need simplification in the source file. Keep the original.

Combine shapes or outline content

Select compatible vector layers and use Vector operations for boolean operations. Subtract removes upper layers from the bottom layer. The operands remain editable until you choose Flatten; Release operands separates a compound result again.

Outline text and Outline stroke create path copies. The original remains recoverable in Layers. Text converted to paths no longer has editable characters; preserve a text version when wording may change. Outlining needs access to the actual font used.

Trace an image

1. Insert and select a project image.
2. Choose Trace image… from its vector operations or context menu.
3. Choose monochrome or a limited color palette.
4. Adjust threshold or color count, detail, simplification and noise filtering while checking the preview.
5. For an animated image, explicitly choose a frame.
6. Insert the trace when it looks useful. The new group contains editable color shapes; the original is hidden and remains recoverable.

Tracing approximates the pixels. It does not recognize text, reconstruct the original logo geometry or automatically produce the fewest possible Bézier points. A simple high-contrast image is a better first test than a photograph. If the image or document changes during preparation, generate a fresh trace.

Export a standalone SVG

Select vector layers or groups containing only supported vector content, then choose Export SVG…. Export uses the active breakpoint and resolves colors into the file. The output does not need the MODO project to display.

Outline text or strokes first when the exporter requires it. Unsupported content produces a diagnostic instead of a silently incomplete result. Inspect the SVG in another viewer. Reimporting it does not promise preservation of every SVG feature or the original component structure.

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