User Guide

Chapter 7: Sprite Technology
you examine this object, you see that it has a vector gradient. The gradient style is similar to the
vector mask style. The vector gradient fades from black to white in the same way that the vector mask
caused the masked object to fade from transparent to opaque.
The relationship between vector masks and vector gradients also works in reverse; use a vector
gradient-filled object as a vector mask (see "Masking with a vector object" on page 681).
A vector mask is related to a vector gradient. If you detach a vector mask, you get an object with a
gradient. The grays in the gradient correspond to transparency levels in a masked object.
Original object Detached mask Masked object
Applying vector masks
You can apply a vector mask using the Vector Transparency tools. When an object is selected, you
can drag one of these tools near or over the object to apply a transparency effect.
The Vector Transparency tools provide the easiest way to create transparency effects such as
vignettes (image that appear in ovals and other shapes) as well as linear, radial, or rectangular
fades.
You can use the Transparency palette to apply vector transparency effects. When you use the
Transparency palette, you can specify values for the position and intensity of the effect.
In the Transparency palette, the Mask menu shows the vector mask style when a selected object has
a vector mask.
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