I am trying to create a logo from quite a complex outline. I have been using various line, and arc tools, and although I get the desired result it takes a while.
The way I am used to working with Adobe is by using standard geometry (circles, squares etc..) then combining them (union). This gives a single shape to work with .
So how do I do this with Max, so I can simply convert to an editable poly and take it from there.

Clearly I am new to all this, and perhaps am going about this the wrong way?

Thanks

Pete

I am thinking I need to use the Boolean command? although when I select multiple elements of the same shape the boolean button is greyed out.
If I keep the elements in separate shapes then the boolean button isn’t even there?

I’ll stop flailing in the dark now and wait for one of you guys to help out.

Thanks again.

Pete

You can only boolean closed shapes, and the shapes must be part of the same Editable Spline object.

Create a Rectangle and a Circle (overlapping).
Select the Rectangle, right-click, convert to Editable Spline.
Attach, select the circle shape.
They are now both contained within a single object.
Spline SubObject level, select the Rectangle.
Choose the boolean operation (union) and click the Boolean Button.
Click the Circle (note that the cursor changes over a valid spline).

If the Boolean button immediately “unclicks” itself, you have a problem. Look in the Status bar - it should tell you what the problem is - you may have to click it again to see it (it doesn’t stay visible for very long). Same if you click what you think is a valid spline - they have to be at the same Z position (viewport dependant, I think) or they are not considered to be intersecting. The Status Bar should tell you something, at least.

Max 4.2 through 2013.
XP-64 (SP2)
NVidia 9800GTX-512 (Driver 266.58).
Core 2 Quad Q6600 2.4GHz, 8Gb Ram, DX9.0c.

Steve,

Bang on!

Thanks so much.

Pete