Why is my artwork breaking when I use an Envelope deformer?

If you notice artwork breaking when using an Envelope, you can fix it by adding a Weighted deformer. This article will show you how.

Step 1: Find the affected part in the Node view

1. In the Camera view, use the Transform tool to select the layer where the breaking is happening.

2. While hovering in the Node view, press the "O" key to jump directly to that layer. This works better when zoomed in.
3. Locate the deformer that is connected to the layer.

Step 2: Add a Weighted-Deform to the part

1. In the Node view, disconnect the Deformer group by holding Alt/Option and dragging the deformer group out of the connection. Leave it on the side.

2. Add a Weighted-Deform node by doing one of the following:
   • In the Node view, press Enter and type in ‘Weighted’. Select the Weighted-Deform to add it.
   • In the Node Library view, search for the Weighted-Deform, or find it in the Deformation category, and drag it to the Node view.
3. In the Node view, attach the Weighted-Deform node between the drawing layer and peg by holding Alt/Option and dragging it over the connection until it snaps in.

4. Reattach the original deformer to the peg by connecting the peg into the top of the deformation group.
5. Attach the bottom port of the original deformation group into the left side of the Weighted-Deform node. This port will be hidden on the Weight-Deform until you drag a connection near it. Make sure the group is connected to the left-most hidden port.

6. In the Camera view, review the part again.

Q&A

Question:

Why is my part still breaking even after adding the Weighted-Deform?

Answers:

1. Check that the connection in the Node view is correct and that the deformer is attached to the left hidden port on the Weighted-Deform.
2. Check that you have attached the Weighted-Deform to the correct deformer. If you are using an invert cutter system and need to select the invert-cut object, it can be easy to accidentally select the layer behind the invert cut object instead. Make sure the correct layer is selected.
3. Make sure you are using the Weighted-Deform on an Envelope deformer.

Question:

Does the Weighted-Deform work on all deformers?

Answer:

The Weighted-Deform is designed to work with Envelope deformers, but is compatible with Bones and Curves when creating more complex Weighted-Deform setups. See About Weighted Deformations for more.