You are here: Objects & Attributes > Strokes: outline effects > Creating custom arrowheads

Creating custom arrowheads

You can create arrowheads using the Arrow manager in the Attributes palette. These arrowheads can be used as starting, ending, or double-sided arrowheads. Canvas has several preset arrowhead styles that you can use and edit, or you can use any vector, paint, or text object as an arrowhead.

To modify classic arrowheads:

Click on the Arrow tab of the Attributes palette.
Select the arrow type (triangle, pie, diamond, circle, line, or custom) so you can access its respective manager.
Use the arrow manager controls to define the new arrow. You can even modify the arrow within the edit box.
Click the Add Preset button to add this new arrow to the Presets palette.

Classic arrow options

Witness	Adds an adjustable witness line to the end of the arrowhead.
Hollow	Removes the fill ink from the arrowhead.
Angle	Specifies the angle of the arrowhead. A larger angle creates a wider arrowhead.
Full	Draws the complete arrowhead.
Magnification	Use the Magnification controls to zoom in and out.
Top	Draws the top of the arrowhead.
Bottom	Draws the bottom of the arrowhead.
Mimic Pen	Size: Applies the pen width to the arrow. Color: Applies the pen ink to the arrow.
Place on Segments	Select this check box to add arrows to each segment of an object.
Arrow controls	Use these controls to select a right arrow, left arrow, or double-sided arrow. Click in the center for the double-sided option.

Some options in the Arrow manager do not apply to all types of arrowheads.

Samples of classic arrowheads

Triangle

Pie

Diamond

Circle

Line

To create a custom arrowhead:

In the Attributes palette, select Custom from the Type menu.
Select the Arrow settings you want to use.
Click the Add Preset button to add the custom arrow to the Presets palette.

Custom arrow options

Type	Select Custom from the menu.
Flip	Click the buttons to flip the arrow horizontally and vertically.
Create	Click the Create button and the object appears in the edit box.
Edit box	Modify the arrowhead in this box. Drag the handles to resize the arrowhead. A horizontal line indicates the horizontal axis of the path's endpoint. A vertical line indicates the vertical axis of the path's endpoint.
Mimic Pen	Size: Applies the pen width to the arrow. Color: Applies the pen ink to the arrow.
Place on Segments	Select this check box to add arrows to each segment of an object.
Arrow controls	Use these controls to select a right arrow, left arrow, or double-sided arrow. Click in the center for the double-sided option.