Panel Functions

Dash Palette
Dot Specification
Palette Aids
Defaults

Dash Specification


Lines, curves, and outlines (borders) may be drawn as dashed lines. The parameters that control the size of the dashes and spaces between the dashes are found on the Dashes Panel. To show this panel select "Dashes" from the Tools Menu which is on the Main Menu.

In order to change the "Dash" of a graphic(s) it must be the selected graphic in the top window of EazyDraw. If no graphic is selected the Dash parameters on the panel represents the dash format that will be used when creating new graphics. Follow the Target Graphic(s) link for more information on this topic.

A graphic doesn't need to have a Outline component. If no outline is drawn the graphic will consist only of its Fill with no border, or specific outline. In this case the dash parameters will have no effect.

The Dash check box, shown circled, determines if a dash pattern is drawn for a graphic. If the check box is checked a dash pattern will be used, if not the line is drawn solid-no dashes.

You may independently change the length of the dash line and the length of the space between dashes. These lengths are measured in Fine Scale Units (inches, mm, or points) as shown by the Units Button found at the upper right hand corner of the palette. You may change either value by typing in a new number.

You may also change the values using the "Sliders" shown circled next each text box. As you change a slider bar the value is updated in the text box and the target graphic(s) are updated to reflect the new dash parameter.

The value for "Start" can be used to "slide" the pattern along the graphic's path. The number is shown as the percent of a "cycle" which includes one dash and one space.

The Cap style has effect on the appearance of dashed lines. This parameters are also on the Styles Panel.

The example to the right demonstrates a few possibilities for using dashed lines.