What It Does
Vertex Tool rounds corners on mask and shape layers by replacing selected vertices with new ones based on 12 different rounding algorithms. You control rounding by pixels or percentage, target individual vertices or entire shapes at once, and animate smooth transitions from sharp to rounded corners.
Key Features
12 rounding algorithms. Each algorithm places vertices differently. Apply the default method (green stroke) or hold Alt for the alternative shape (yellow stroke).
Flexible targeting. Set Target: All to round every vertex on selected shapes simultaneously, or Target: One to work on a single vertex. Navigation buttons (< and >) jump between vertices, with Shift and Cmd modifiers for skipping multiple steps.
Animated morphing. The Animate option transitions from the original shape to the rounded version over a set number of frames. Essential when using algorithms that add three or more vertices (step, bubble, pinch), preventing distorted transitions.
Coordinate precision. The Set Custom Vertex Coordinates dialog positions vertices in layer space or screen space. You can also define in and out tangents for all vertices or just selected ones.
Find intersection point. Calculates where two lines intersect (formed by neighboring vertices) and repositions vertices there. Useful for transitioning from rounded back to sharp corners.
Shape data storage. Store Shape Data reads vertex positions and tangents, saving them to the shape’s expression field. Restore the original shape anytime with the Restore Shape button, which creates a keyframe at the recorded time.
Live coordinates display. Shows real-time position data for the vertex in focus, including in and out tangent information.
Who It’s For
Motion designers working with logo animations, kinetic typography, or shape-based motion graphics where precise corner control matters. Useful for title animations that need smooth corner transitions or geometric designs requiring exact vertex placement.
Pricing
Vertex Tool uses pay-what-you-want pricing (set your own price). A free trial is available, limited to a maximum of five vertices per path. Parametric shapes like rectangles, ellipses, and stars must be converted to Bezier paths before using the tool (right-click the shape path and select Convert To Bezier Path).