Working with vectors in Figma can feel like a maze when you’re just starting. But no worries — once you know how to move those tiny vector points around, things get WAY more fun. Whether you’re cleaning up a logo, editing an icon, or just tweaking shapes — you’re in the right place!
TL;DR
Changing vector point positions in Figma is easy once you enter Vector Edit Mode. Just double-click a shape or use the Enter key to access points. Select a point and click-drag to move it. You can also use arrow keys for precision. It’s quick, easy, and feels like art once you get the hang of it!
What’s a Vector Point, Anyway?
A vector point (or node) is one of those little dots that make up a shape. They connect via lines called paths. When you adjust them, you change the shape itself. So learning to move them is essential to becoming a Figma wizard!
Getting Into Vector Editing Mode
First things first. You have to be in the right mode to edit points.
- Select the shape or vector object you want to edit.
- Double-click on it — OR — press Enter.
You’ll now see anchor points (those magical little dots). Congratulations, you’re in Vector Edit Mode! 🎉
How to Move a Vector Point
Here’s the fun part. Let’s move those points around!
- Click on a point to select it.
- Click and drag to move it wherever you want.
Hold Shift to move in straight lines only. This helps keep things neat and tidy.
Want pixel-perfect moves? Select a point and use your arrow keys instead.
Multiple Point Moves
Need to move more than one at the same time? Easy.
- Hold Shift and click multiple points to select them.
- Drag all of them as a group!
Perfect if you want to stretch or squeeze part of your shape.
Curve Control (Yes, They Wiggle!)
Some vector points have handles — little lines sticking out. These control curves.
- Click a curved point.
- Grab the handle and drag it around.
This lets you tweak how sharp or smooth the curve is. Total power move.
Adding & Deleting Points
Need more control? Add some points!
- While in Vector Edit Mode, hover over a path between two points.
- Click once to add a new point!
To delete one:
- Select the point.
- Press Delete.
Just like erasing part of a line — nice and tidy.
Convert Point Types
Points can be straight, smooth, or mirrored. You can change them!
- Right-click a point.
- Select Convert to Corner or Convert to Mirrored.
Corner makes sharp angles. Mirrored makes perfect curves. Smooth is somewhere in between.
Shortcuts Make It Snappy
Here are a few handy shortcuts. Think of these as cheat codes:
- Enter — Enter Vector Mode
- Esc — Exit Vector Mode
- Shift + Click — Select multiple points
- Delete — Remove selected point
- Arrow keys — Fine-tune position
Learn a couple of these and your workflow will speed up like magic.
Practice Idea: Make a Custom Star
Want to get better fast? Try making a custom star.
- Create a regular star from the shape tool.
- Enter vector mode by hitting Enter.
- Select a couple of points and drag!
- Try pulling handles, adding a few points, connecting them differently.
You’ll get the hang of things real quick with a little playtime.
Oops! Fixed It.
Made a weird mistake? No problem.
- Use Cmd+Z (or Ctrl+Z on Windows) to undo.
- Still not working? Exit vector mode and try again fresh.
Like drawing with pencil — except undo is instant. Way better, right?
When to Use Vector Editing
Not sure when to dive into those points? Here are perfect times:
- Customizing icons
- Fixing logo shapes
- Designing unique UI elements
- Shaping weird blobs (you know the ones 🌊)
If your shape just isn’t quite right — vector editing is your best friend.
Final Tip: Zoom In!
Seriously. Zoom in like way in. Working with points is tiny, detailed stuff. You’ll make better moves and fewer mistakes. So don’t be afraid to get up close and personal.
Wrap-Up: You’re a Vector Ninja Now
That’s it! You’ve now got the skills to move vector points around like a pro. Remember:
- Enter vector mode
- Select points
- Drag, delete, or tweak
- Use handles for curves
Practice makes perfect — and a little bending and reshaping goes a long way. Now go twist some paths into clever shapes and stunning designs 🌟.
Happy designing!
