What actually changes.
Bézier simplification checks whether a point can be removed while the new curve stays within a small tolerance of the old contour. A higher value allows more distance and produces lighter paths.
For handwriting I want to keep small characteristics. A clean logo may benefit from calmer curves. There is no value that is right for every source, so I start low and inspect corners, counters and small terminals.
Useful comparison points
- Tight counters inside letters
- Sharp corners and short serifs
- Round outer edges at high zoom
- Small intentional irregularities in handwriting
Step by step.
- Finish tonal settings and contour mode first.
- Zoom into a typical curve in Vector view.
- Increase Bézier simplification slowly.
- Compare character at corners and counters.
- Move back when the form visibly changes.
- Export the lightest useful path, not the lightest possible path.
Simplification cannot restore a missing contour. If black-and-white separation has already removed detail, correct Black level, Contrast or Brightness first.
Questions before export.
Why are fewer points often better?
The path is easier to scale, edit and process in production software. Calm curves do not need one anchor for every pixel.
Which value is right?
As little as possible and as much as necessary. A low single-digit value is a useful start in Vector Boy.
Does simplification change the black area?
Slightly, because the curve is approximated again. Inspect the form both at high zoom and at real output size.