Rotation and Shape Gradients #

Overview #

Rotation and shape gradients create visual movement without only changing hole size. They are useful for decorative panels, product details, speaker covers, lighting screens, and patterns that need a stronger design direction.

Use these controls after you understand size gradients and layout settings.

Rotation Gradient #

A rotation gradient changes the angle of holes across the panel.

It works best with non-circular shapes, such as:

• Rectangles.
• Slots.
• Diamonds.
• Polygons.
• Stars.

Circles do not visually show rotation, so choose a shape with direction if you want the effect to be visible.

Create a Rotation Gradient #

• Choose a shape that shows rotation, such as a slot or rectangle.
• Open Gradient.
• Turn on Enable Gradient.
• Choose Angle in Gradient Dimension.
• Add a control point or gradient line.
• Adjust Center Rotation.
• Adjust influence radius or range.
• Choose a curve and reverse setting if needed.

Use a line control for directional rotation. Use a point control for radial rotation around a focal area.

Rotation Gradient Tips #

• Use smaller angle values first, such as 15° to 45°.
• Check sharp corners after rotation.
• Watch for holes that rotate too close to neighboring holes.
• Use slots carefully because rotation can reduce bridge width diagonally.
• Keep export complexity in mind for dense decorative patterns.

Shape Gradient #

A shape gradient changes holes between a base shape and a target shape.

For example, a pattern can transition from circles to diamonds, rectangles, polygons, or stars.

In HoleSnap, shape gradients use a target shape. The base shape comes from the current Shape & Style settings, and the target is selected inside the Gradient panel.

Create a Shape Gradient #

• Set the base shape in Shape & Style.
• Open Gradient.
• Turn on Enable Gradient.
• Choose Shape in Gradient Dimension.
• Select a Target Shape.
• Adjust target shape parameters such as aspect ratio, polygon sides, star points, corner radius, or rotation.
• Add a control point or gradient line.
• Adjust influence radius or range.
• Choose Clamp, Repeat, or Mirror.

Target Shape Parameters #

Depending on the selected target shape, you may see:

• Aspect Ratio for rectangles or diamonds.
• Polygon Sides for polygon targets.
• Star Points and inner ratio for star targets.
• Corner Radius for shapes that support rounded corners.
• Rotation for directional target shapes.
• Ring Inner Diameter for ring targets when available.

Use simple target shapes first. Decorative targets can increase file complexity.

Mapping Modes for Shape Gradients #

Clamp applies the target shape inside the influence area and returns to the base shape outside it.

Repeat creates repeated target/base zones.

Mirror alternates the transition direction and often creates a smoother repeated rhythm.

For most fabrication work, start with Clamp.

Fabrication Checks #

Before exporting a rotation or shape gradient, check:

• Minimum bridge width.
• Sharp corners.
• Small target shape details.
• Overlapping holes.
• Edge trimming.
• DXF complexity.

Shape gradients can make a design visually rich, but they can also create geometry that is harder to cut. If the exported file feels too complex, simplify the target shape or reduce hole count.