Unlike other graphic programs that you've probably used for creating Web images, such as Photoshop, Fireworks does not color pixels (bitmap). Rather, like FreeHand or Adobe Illustrator, it's a Vector based program. Open Fireworks and practice the steps outlined in the tutorial. | |
Paths From the Tools Palette
pick up the Pen Tool The start icon for
the Pen Tool looks like this: Anchor points define a path at points where the path changes. Segments are the paths that connect anchor points. To finish a path, hold down the Command/Ctrl key, and double-click. |
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Control handles extend from anchor points. Their length and direction controls the shape of curves of segments. Curves do not have to be smooth. A corner curve has an abrupt change of direction. To create a Corner curve, create an anchor point with control handles, do not release the mouse button. Hold the Option/Alt key and then drag to pivot the second handle. Release the mouse. The longer the handle, the more steep the curve. Points can be added
and deleted to a path with the Subselection tool
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Selecting Paths Using the Pointer
Tool Several objects can be selected at one time by creating a marquee with the Pointer Tool. | ![]() |
Because Fireworks
creates paths with anchor points you can use the Subselection
Tool Anchor points that are white are selected points. Anchor points that are filled with the highlight color are not selected.
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Objects Objects can be Grouped by selecting two or more then choose Modify>Group By using this option, the designer can change elements of the entire group at one time. Objects are Ungrouped by choosing Modify>Ungroup Groups can be nested | ![]() |
Objects can be Scaled, Skewed, Distorted, Rotated by choosing the Modify> command. Scale Attributes extends and scaling to the size of the stroke, pattern fill, gradient fill, or effect applied to the object.
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The Numeric Transform window allows you to complete a transformation in percentages | ![]() |
Vector graphics allow objects to be combined from simple path shapes into complex ones. The commands that allow this are: Modify>Combine>Union Modify>Combine> Intersect Modify>Combine>Punch Modify>Combine>Crop | ![]() |
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