X

626Final Cut Pro User Guide
Edit B-Spline control points in Final Cut Pro
Editing control points in B-Spline shapes is similar to editing control points in Bezier
shapes. In fact, the steps for selecting, moving, adding, deleting, and locking control
points are almost exactly the same. The main difference in editing the two types of shapes
lies in how you manipulate and adjust curves.
The simplest, and usually fastest, way to manipulate B-Spline curves is to move B-Spline
points closer to or farther from one another. When B-Spline points are moved closer to
one another, a sharper curve is created. B-Spline points that are farther from one another
create shallower curves.
Each B-Spline control point tugs on a section of the shape, pulling it toward itself. For this
reason, you manipulate a shape’s curve by moving its control points in the direction you
want to pull the shape. For example, notice how every control point creating the S curve
below is offset in the direction of the curve it influences.
By default, B-Spline shapes have no corners. However, you can adjust the amount of
curvature at each B-Spline control point to create sharper curves using fewer control
points. (You can even create corners at a single point, if necessary.)
The easiest way to adjust B-Spline point curvature is by Command-dragging the control
point. You can also switch between three preset degrees of curvature.