How to "cut" out "countours" from one shape to the other for depth effect without using pixel masks?

[Necrilem]

Hey so,

I am trying to recreate something I made a while back as vector. Also switched to the affinity suite so I am absolutely new here.

Basically, how do I get from one image to the other.

Obviously I can use the pixel persona to use masks, but I want to stay vector-based.

 

[Komatös]

Hi @Necrilem

Affinity Designer would be the right choice here.

Do you still have the vector file or only the pixel document?

In the latter case, the pen tool in Designer would be my tool of choice.

If this is a vetor you only have to ad an outline to the strokes. Move the ends a little out of the canvas

Here is the Designer File with history I've worked out.
image_2022-11-30.afdesign

 

[Necrilem]

Hi @Komatös

Thank you for responding.

I actually do have the vectors but simply using an outline is not the solution I am looking for. I don't want to have to create an outline on specific parts and adjust it to the background color, but actually have that part be "cut" out from the shapes as needed.

I actually found a roundabout way at this point. I segment the curves into parts, copy+paste them, use the contour tool to create a "vector outline shape" so to speak and then use that to subtract it from shape where needed. Its really roundabout but so far the only solution I found.

 

This is what I achieved with using pixel masks, that I want to achieve while staying completely vector. This is going to take a while

 

[Komatös]

You can use the shape builder tool to do this without using masks.

Use the original shapes, make an outline to each shape and choose Expand Stroke frome menu - Layer.

Maybe this vid helps to understand.

 

[Necrilem]

Ah yes, that definitely looks like it could help. Definitely going to watch through that one. Thanks for the help!

[Komatös]

You are welcome!

And by the way ... a nice tribal!

Edited November 30, 2022 by Komatös

[ndr42]

Affinity (Serif) itself has a video that shows the use of the shape builder tool and by something that looks very similar to your design. Have look at the 3:00 minute mark: