Edge Extension (All Edges)

Created by Sunny Hart, Modified on Tue, 3 Mar at 8:42 AM by Sunny Hart

STEK EDGE • Canvas

Edge Extension (All Edges): Expand or Shrink the Entire Pattern Evenly

Extend or shrink all edges of a pattern by a precise amount to quickly add (or remove) coverage across the entire outline.

Purpose: Apply a uniform inward or outward extension to the full pattern outline.

Tool Location: Canvas → Edge Extension → All Edges

Caution: Edge Extension modifies the final shape. Start with small values and confirm the dotted preview before applying.

Why this matters

Problem: Installers often need a consistent allowance around the entire part for wrapping or trimming tolerance.
What EDGE improves: All Edges applies a uniform change across the whole boundary with one precise value.
Result: Faster global adjustment without rebuilding the pattern.

What this feature does

What it is: Extends outward or shrinks inward the entire pattern boundary evenly.
What it helps you do: Add uniform coverage or reduce the full outline when needed.
What it does not do (optional): It does not allow different values for different edges (use Selected Edges for that).

Videos

Video

Video — Edge Extension: All Edges

Covers: Setting amount, choosing inward/outward, previewing, Retain Original, and applying Extend.

When to use: When you want the same change around the entire outline.

Before you start

You need: A pattern opened in the canvas.
Recommended: Start with small values and confirm the dotted preview.
Terms used (optional): Outward = increase area; Inward = decrease area; Retain Original = keep original + create a copy.

How to use it

Workflow

Workflow A — Apply extension to the whole outline

Open All Edges mode
Where: Canvas tools → Edge Extension
Do: Select All Edges.
Expected result: Global edge extension mode is active.
Enter extension amount
Where: Tool settings panel
Do: Input a value in mm or inches.
Expected result: Amount is ready to apply.
Choose direction
Where: Tool settings panel
Do: Select Outward or Inward.
Expected result: Dotted preview shows future outline.
Decide on Retain Original
Where: Tool settings panel
Do: Toggle Retain Original On (keep both) or Off (modify original).
Expected result: You know whether one or two patterns will remain.
Apply
Where: Tool action button
Do: Click Extend.
Expected result: Pattern updates (or a copy is created if Retain Original is On).

Note: Nothing changes until you click Extend.

Workflow

Workflow B — Retain Original for comparison (optional)

Enable Retain Original and apply a small change.
Compare both shapes in the canvas.
Delete the version you do not want before plotting.
Ungroup if needed to edit the two shapes separately.

Tips

Use All Edges for uniform wrap allowance and quick global changes.
Use Selected Edges when only one area needs extra film.
If Retain Original is On, confirm which pattern you intend to plot.

Common mistakes

Mistake: Retain Original On and plotting both patterns → Fix: Delete or separate the version you don’t need.
Mistake: Applying large values and creating fit problems → Fix: Start small and preview carefully.
Mistake: Expecting changes before clicking Extend → Fix: Click Extend to apply.

Troubleshooting

Issue: Two patterns appear unexpectedly
Cause: Retain Original is enabled
Fix: Delete the version you do not want and verify the remaining one before plotting.

Wrap-up

You applied a uniform inward or outward extension to the entire pattern using a precise value. All Edges is best for consistent coverage around the whole outline, while Selected Edges is better for targeted install-style adjustments.