vectors - research

The stroke on an illustration will not change when scaling the main path. This means if you scale up it will become a thinner line relative to the rest of illustration.​

The stroke stays the same width relative to the scaled size but will look different.​

If this is then inverted on the other side and we make it smaller the stroke will relatively look larger than the shape.​

This path has a stroke of 10pt when scaled this stays consistent with the main image but changes relatively. 

Understanding Stroke Width and Scaling in Illustrations​

When working with vector illustrations, it’s essential to understand how stroke widths behave when scaling objects. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:​

1. Stroke Width Consistency​

• Definition: The stroke width of a path refers to the thickness of the line that defines its edges. In your example, this stroke width is set to 10pt.​

• Behaviour During Scaling: When you scale the main path (e.g., enlarging or reducing its size), the stroke width remains at 10pt. This means that the stroke does not automatically adjust its thickness relative to the size of the shape it outlines.​

2. Visual Perception of Stroke Width​

• Scaling Up: When the illustration is scaled up (made larger), the 10pt stroke may appear thinner compared to the larger size of the shape. This occurs because the stroke does not change its width proportionally, leading to a visual effect where the line seems less prominent relative to the overall size of the illustration.​

• Scaling Down: Conversely, when the illustration is scaled down (made smaller), the 10pt stroke may appear thicker relative to the smaller shape. The unchanged stroke width now occupies a more significant visual space compared to the overall size of the object.​

3. Relative vs. Absolute Measurements​

• Absolute Measurement: The stroke remains at 10pt regardless of scaling, which is an absolute measurement.​

• Relative Perception: As the shape changes in size, the visual weight of the stroke changes relative to the size of the path. This can lead to challenges in maintaining a consistent look throughout different sizes of an illustration.​

4. Practical Implications for Design​

• Consistency in Design: Designers should be mindful of how stroke widths will appear at different scales. If a stroke appears too thin or too thick after scaling, adjustments may be necessary.​

• Adjusting Stroke Width: To maintain visual balance, consider adjusting the stroke width after scaling the illustration. This could involve either increasing or decreasing the stroke width proportionally based on the new size of the shape.​

• Use of Effects: Some design software allows for variable stroke options that can adapt to scaling, which can help maintain visual consistency.​

5. Conclusion​

• Understanding the behavior of stroke widths during scaling is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic in vector illustrations. By considering how strokes visually relate to the size of shapes, designers can make informed decisions to maintain balance and clarity in their artwork.​

By keeping these principles in mind, you can ensure that your illustrations maintain their intended appearance, regardless of the scaling applied.