Split Pattern

Created by Sunny Hart, Modified on Tue, 3 Mar at 9:02 AM by Sunny Hart

STEK EDGE • Canvas

Split Patterns: Horizontal, Vertical, and Discretionary Cuts

Split a pattern into sections so you can install partial coverage (ex: half hood) or modify how a piece is produced.

Purpose: Split a pattern into sections so you can install partial coverage (ex: half hood) or modify how a piece is produced.

Applies to: STEK EDGE (current version) — Canvas (Split tool)

Caution: If you use leave ends open, close the ends (Auto-close or Cmd/Ctrl + Q) before plotting to avoid pattern issues.

Why this matters

Problem: Real installs often need partial coverage (half hood), easier handling (large bumper pieces), or controlled modifications without rebuilding a pattern.
What EDGE improves: The Split tool lets you divide a pattern using multiple modes, with adjustable controls and quick “split in half” options.
Result: Faster pattern preparation and more flexibility for real-world jobs.

What this feature does

What it is: A split workflow inside the canvas that divides a single pattern into multiple pieces.
What it helps you do: Split horizontally, split vertically, or split at any angle using discretionary splits — including an advanced mode that leaves ends open.
What it does not do (optional): It does not guarantee install suitability for every custom split. Always confirm your split meets coverage and handling needs before plotting.

Videos

Video

Video 1 — Split Patterns (All modes)

Covers: Split horizontally, split vertically, split discretionary, and split discretionary (leave ends open), including how to adjust the split line.

When to use: When you need partial coverage, easier handling, or pattern modifications without changing the original design.

Before you start

You need: A pattern opened in the canvas.
Recommended: Use Horizontal/Vertical splits first (more predictable). Use “leave ends open” only if you understand the plotting implications.
Terms used (optional): Split line = dotted guide; Line angle/distances = controls (labels may vary); Split in half = one-click; Auto-close = closes ends; Cmd/Ctrl + Q = close shortcut mentioned in your workflow.

How to use it

Workflow

Workflow A — Most common (Horizontal or Vertical split)

Select the pattern
Where: Canvas
Do: Click the pattern you want to split.
Expected result: The pattern is selected.
Open Split tool
Where: Canvas tools → Split
Do: Click Split to open its options.
Expected result: You see split mode options.
Choose split direction
Where: Split options
Do: Choose Split horizontally or Split vertically.
Expected result: EDGE enters split placement mode.
Place the split line
Where: Canvas (inside the pattern)
Do: Click one point inside the pattern to display the dotted split line.
Expected result: A dotted line appears and updates as you reposition it.
Adjust the split line (inputs or mouse)
Where: Split controls (labels may vary)
Do: Adjust using available inputs such as Line angle, Distance to top/bottom, Distance to left/right, and Cover amount (label may vary), or drag the line with your mouse.
Expected result: The dotted line moves to the exact cut position you need.
(Optional) Split in half
Where: Split controls
Do: Click Split in half for a centered split.
Expected result: The line snaps to a true half split.
Apply the split
Where: Split controls
Do: Confirm/apply the split.
Expected result: The pattern becomes multiple closed pieces you can manage separately.

Workflow

Workflow B — Discretionary split (any angle)

Select the pattern
Where: Canvas
Do: Select the target pattern.
Expected result: Pattern is selected.
Choose Split discretionary
Where: Split options
Do: Select Split discretionary.
Expected result: EDGE waits for point inputs.
Set the cut using two points
Where: Canvas (inside the pattern)
Do: Click two points to define the cut at any angle/distance.
Expected result: A cut line is created following the two-point direction.
Apply the split
Where: Split controls
Do: Confirm/apply.
Expected result: The pattern splits into separate pieces.

Workflow

Workflow C — Discretionary split (leave ends open) (advanced)

Choose “leave ends open” mode
Where: Split options
Do: Select Split discretionary — leave ends open.
Expected result: EDGE enters open-end split mode.
Set the cut using two points
Where: Canvas
Do: Click two points to define the cut.
Expected result: The pattern is split, and the cut ends remain open.
Close ends before plotting
Where: Canvas → close action
Do: Use Auto-close (or Cmd/Ctrl + Q, as mentioned) to close open ends.
Expected result: Open ends become closed paths, reducing risk of plot issues.

Tips

Use Split in half when you need speed and symmetry.
Use distance fields when you want repeatable splits across similar jobs.
Treat “leave ends open” as a special case and always close ends before plotting.

Common mistakes

Mistake: Plotting after “leave ends open” without closing → Fix: Use Auto-close (or Cmd/Ctrl + Q) before plotting.
Mistake: Clicking outside the pattern and not seeing the split line → Fix: Click inside the pattern to place the dotted line.
Mistake: Over-adjusting line angle when a distance input would be simpler → Fix: Use distances (top/bottom or left/right) for predictable positioning.

Troubleshooting

Issue: Split line does not appear
Cause: The pattern is not selected or the click was outside the pattern boundary
Fix: Select the pattern first, then click inside it to place the dotted line.

Issue: Pattern behaves strangely after an open-ends split
Cause: The split left open paths that are not closed before plot
Fix: Run Auto-close (or Cmd/Ctrl + Q) to close ends, then review the result before plotting.

Wrap-up

You split a pattern using horizontal, vertical, or discretionary modes to match real install needs like half coverage or easier handling. For advanced “ends open” splits, close the paths before plotting to keep the cut stable and predictable.