How to group shapes on the same layer?

[Asterix]

How to group shapes on the same layer?

Thanks

[hayasidist]

Group as in (say) MS powerpoint "group" (and ungroup)?

you can "create shape" from things that aren't physically linked. For example: on a new vector layer create two rectangles that are separate; (delete the individual Shapes if you want -- the "X" in the fill tools -- note that this does NOT delete the path points); then select alll 8 points; and then "create shape".

When you "select shape" you get all 8 points (but you can still select individual or linked points ...). changes to fill / stroke then apply to both.

NOTE that if you didn't delete the original shapes you'll have 3 shapes: the new "8 point" shape and the 2 original 4 point shapes; and now shape stacking order becomes important.

[neeters_guy]

Hayasidist, you make a good distinction regarding how shapes work. A shape can be made out of discrete meshes, ie., they don't need to be connected. If you apply a gradient fill, for example, there will be only one controller. If you created separate shapes then each shape will have its own controller.

Another way to create a "group" of shapes (the points actually) is to connect them with a simple vector and use Select Connected (tab key) to select them all in one go. You can also use named point selection sets.