What It Does
CuttanaNir2 converts text into animatable stroke paths for write-on effects. It breaks down text into individual character shapes, splits those shapes into precise horizontal or vertical strokes, and sequences the animation. Think handwriting reveals or chalk-on-board effects where each stroke draws on screen in order.
The plugin automates line creation but keeps stroke division manual. You select points on a path to control where it splits, then the tool generates the animation. This balance gives you speed without losing control over how each character is revealed.
Key Features
Text to CharacterPaths separates text layers into individual character shapes. Each letter becomes its own path, ready to be animated sequentially rather than as a block of text.
CharacterPaths to StrokePaths divides paths into horizontal or vertical strokes. Select 2-4 points on a character outline to define cutting points. Choose one point and slice directionally (up, down, left, right). This determines how each stroke is drawn.
Auto Line Making generates stroke animations automatically once paths are divided. The system uses path trimming expressions and slider keyframes, so you can adjust timing and speed without re-animating from scratch.
Round Caps applies rounded ends to strokes instead of flat edges. Useful for smoother, more organic handwriting looks.
Trail Making creates trailing paths based on bones (likely control points or guides). This adds secondary motion to the strokes as they animate.
Animation Out animates strokes disappearing, not just drawing on. Reverses the write-on effect or creates erase-style transitions.
AutoTracedLayer to Shapes converts autotraced layers (from video footage or images) into editable shape paths, which can then be processed through the same write-on workflow.
Lines to Sequences organizes stroke layers into sequences based on layer names. Automates the stacking and timing of multiple strokes across complex compositions.
Who It’s For
Motion designers creating title sequences, educational videos, or branded content where text needs to appear as if hand-drawn. Useful for kinetic typography projects that require letter-by-letter reveals with precise control over stroke direction and timing.
Also relevant if you’re working with illustrated text or custom typefaces where standard typewriter effects don’t match the visual style. The manual cutting keeps you in charge of how each glyph is constructed on screen.
Pricing
CuttanaNir2 uses a pay-what-you-want model. The suggested price is $39.99, but you set the amount.
Upgrades from CuttanaNir1 are free if you purchased the first version after March 1, 2023. Otherwise, upgrades cost $20. Log into your aescripts account to see your upgrade eligibility, or contact support with proof of purchase from other vendors.
A free trial is available, limited to dividing three characters. Enough to test the workflow but not for production use.