Add a modifier key to pen tool, to constrain anchor handle dragging to current handle orientation.i
What I ask for is the equivalent of "constrain path dragging on segment reshape" kind of behaviour, but accessible on the fly on the anchor point edit level, not segment level. As it is now, if I have an anchor with a long handle on one side and short handle on the other side, it is impossible to adjust short handle directly without seriously messing with the direction of the long handle, altering the curvature wildly.
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Łukasz Martynowicz commented
@Egor
Thank you for the plugin suggestion, I'll try it. The "split path" method is a bit too cumbersome for a fast lineart workflow, segment dragging is all in all more convenient. -
Yes, handles are second-class passengers in Illustrator :(
So far there are two methods I know to tweak a handle’s length without messing the angle of the other handle for a smooth point.
1. Use the PathScribe tool from Astute Graphics plugin. Holding Opt/Alt will do exactly what you want. The plugin is paid, but their toolset is bombastic.
2. Cut the path in this point, grab the one of two you need (this can be tricky), and then scale it — with the Scale tool and Smart Guides on, or with the Scale dialog. No plugins required.(Edited by admin)