MX

Modifying a bevel
You can change the angle and elevation of the light and change the shape, direction and size of the bevel
edge.
Bevel direction
Bevels can be inside the object or outside. Outside bevels make objects larger; inside bevels do not
change the object size.
To change bevel direction:
1.
Select the object.
2.
Click either the Inner or Outer button.
Changing the bevel light source
The bevel effect is created by a light shining across the object and highlighting the shape (profile) of the
bevel. You can change the direction and height of the light and its strength (the contrast).
Changing the light angle (horizontal direction):
1.
Select the object.
2.
Drag the arrowhead to change the position of the
light source.
You cannot move the center of the arrow, only the
arrowhead.
For precise angles, select Light angle from the Slider type
list. Then drag the slider or type into the text box.
If you have several beveled objects selected, light angle changes all bevels. Dragging the arrow changes
just the bevel (or bevels) to which the arrow refers.
Changing the light strength (contrast)
To change the light strength:
1.
Select the object.
2.
Select Contrast from the Slider type list. Then drag the slider or type into the text box.
If you have several beveled objects selected, any changes apply to all the bevels. The colors used in the
bevel affect the contrast. For example, strong (saturated) colors require more contrast than weak colors
to get the same effect. For best results, you will probably have to adjust the contrast for each object.
Changing the light elevation (vertical angle)
This lets you move the light anywhere from immediately above the object (90º) to the side of the object
(0º).
1.
Select the object.
2.
Select Light elevation from the Slider type list. Then drag the slider or type into the text box.
For rounded bevels we recommend a light elevation of 30º. At this angle the bevel blends smoothly with
the object.
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