What It Does
Pixelfan generates strokes along mask paths using any layer as the texture source. After Effects lacks native support for custom-textured mask outlines, so this plugin exists to fill that gap. You draw a mask, pick a texture layer, and Pixelfan warps that texture along the path.
Original Frame mode uses the underlying layer itself as the stroke texture, creating unusual distortion effects. All parameters are expression-driven, so you can animate or link them to other properties.
Key Features
Any layer as texture. Video, images, nested comps, anything AE can render becomes your stroke material. Not limited to built-in stroke styles.
Expression-driven controls. Parameters are exposed as expressions, letting you tie stroke behavior to audio, time, or other layer properties.
Optimized rendering. Version 1.2 renders up to 4.5x faster than launch. Scrubbing and parameter changes are twice as fast. The timeline shows a progress indicator during renders.
Who It’s For
Motion designers creating glitch effects, distorted typography, or experimental visuals. Useful for anything that needs organic, textured outlines that standard stroke effects can’t produce. Works for title animations, logo treatments, or abstract compositions where you want texture to follow a specific path.
Pricing
Single-user license costs $49.99. Floating server and render-only licenses are available. A trial version lets you test compatibility before purchase.