Keep Original for Offset Path Tool

[EricP]

I'd like to be able to add an offseted path locally using the Offset Path Tool.
The tool currently deforms the existing path and removes the original path. I'd like the ability to add a path with locally defined offsets, while keeping original path intact. I did not find how to do it.

I guess there could be some usability challenges, like for instance adding another offset on top of existing one (desirable). I think we could convert to curves before adding a new offset on top of first one. Only the newly created path would remain editable with offset control points

[VectorStyler]

@EricP Would this separate offset be only the section that is offset, or the whole path duplicated?

[EricP]

I was thinking the whole path, to replicate what's on the offset path shape effect (adding "steps" would be a bonus).

But I think I found a very acceptable workaround by duplicating the shape before applying the offset tool. So that may not be a priority to spend time on this, although it would be cool

Also, adding multiple stepped offsets could be achieved with blend tool, but with more clicks and selections

[Subpath]

@EricP

If i remember right you could copy a part of a Path via "Transform". Select a few Nodes go
to Menu > Transform, choose copy and how many copies you like.
I am on my new pc where VS isnt yet installed, so i could not show more.

[Subpath]

got VectorStyler now on new pc
and could test it

Copy a Part of a Path works only with open Paths.
Here a Pic

Select the all Nodes of that Part then you could use
Menu > Object > Transform > Move (Mode copy)

[EricP]

@Subpath thank you, I will try that