Vector drawing and curve editing

Draw precise vector paths, shape Bézier curves your way, and fine-tune every node.

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How to draw and edit vector curves

From placing your first node to making final refinements, Affinity puts precision at your fingertips.

Pencil icon

Start drawing

Pick up the Pen Tool and place your first nodes. Click for sharp corners, drag for smooth curves, then turn on Rubber Band Mode to preview your next segment before you commit.

Curved line icon — wavy path with editable nodes representing a smooth bezier curve

Refine your path

Switch to the Node Tool to make adjustments. Move nodes, reshape curves, tweak handles, or add and remove points directly on the path. No need to redraw.

Open in new icon

Finish and export

Close your path, smooth it out if needed, and export. Your vectors stay sharp at any size, ready for print or screen.

Vector drawing that feels natural

Whether you're sketching ideas or refining finished artwork, Affinity keeps vector drawing smooth and responsive. Draw with the Pen Tool across multiple modes, switch to the Node Tool to refine the details, and keep every path fully editable from your first point to final export. And with real-time feedback, what you see is what you’ll get. Do it all in Affinity, all for free.

Creative using Affinity Vector Drawing feature to refine a logo's curved letterform with nodes and handles

Every node, exactly how you want it

Fine-tune every curve with precision. Switch between sharp, smooth, and smart nodes, adjust handles independently, and reshape paths without starting over. With snapping, guides, and alignment tools, it's easy to keep every element exactly where it belongs.

Creative using Affinity Vector Drawing feature to smooth a curve corner on an illustrated character

Draw faster, stay focused

Keep your ideas moving with responsive tools that update in real time. Smart Mode smooths curves as you draw, Rubber Band Mode previews your next segment before you click, and advanced rendering keeps panning, zooming, and editing feeling smooth, even in complex documents.

Creative using Affinity Vector Drawing feature to draw a fluid organic shape with the pen tool

FAQs

  • Vector drawing uses paths made of nodes and curves instead of pixels. That means your work stays sharp at any size, making it ideal for logos, icons, and print.

  • They’re the curves that define vector shapes. Each one is controlled by nodes and handles, giving you precise control over its shape.

  • Yes. You can edit vector curves at any time by moving nodes, adjusting handles, or changing node types.

  • Affinity and Illustrator support many of the same use cases — from logo design and branding to digital illustration and marketing assets. The main difference is that Affinity does not require a subscription (it’s free!) and includes tools for vector design, layout, and photo editing in a single, customizable app.

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