Edit Parallel Dimension Tool: CorelDRAW Guide

The Corel Corporation's CorelDRAW Graphics Suite provides users with a suite of tools for precise technical drawing, including the Parallel Dimension tool; this instrument, essential for architects and engineers, creates dimension lines that are parallel to the measured object. Understanding how to edit parallel dimension tool in CorelDRAW is crucial for accurately representing measurements in designs. Precise modifications to these dimensions ensure that the final blueprint, often scrutinized by professionals in fields such as civil engineering, reflects accurate specifications. Furthermore, correct usage of the Parallel Dimension tool allows CAD (Computer-Aided Design) drafters to maintain consistency and accuracy in technical illustrations.

Dimensioning is a critical aspect of technical drawings and design within CorelDRAW. It serves as the language through which precise measurements and specifications are communicated. By accurately annotating designs, dimensions provide the necessary information for manufacturing, construction, and other downstream processes.

This section aims to introduce the fundamental concepts of dimensioning in CorelDRAW, highlight its importance, and offer a brief overview of the dimensioning tools available.

The Significance of Dimensional Annotation

In technical disciplines, precision is paramount. Dimensions provide the unambiguous specifications necessary for translating designs into reality. Without accurate dimensions, projects are at risk of costly errors, misinterpretations, and ultimately, failure to meet required standards.

Consider architectural plans, for instance. Dimensions dictate the precise placement of walls, doors, and windows. Similarly, in mechanical engineering, dimensions define the size and shape of components, ensuring proper fit and functionality.

Annotation with dimensions is therefore not merely an aesthetic addition; it is a fundamental requirement for effective communication and accurate execution.

CorelDRAW's Dimension Tool Family: An Overview

CorelDRAW offers a suite of dimensioning tools designed to cater to various measurement needs. Each tool is optimized for specific scenarios, enabling users to create clear and concise annotations.

• Horizontal and Vertical Dimension Tools: These tools are used for measuring linear distances along the X and Y axes, respectively. They are ideal for standard measurements in orthogonal drawings.

• Parallel Dimension Tool: This tool measures the direct distance between two points, regardless of their orientation. This tool is particularly useful for angled lines and isometric drawings (this will be the main focus later in this article).

• Angular Dimension Tool: This tool measures the angle between two lines or surfaces. It is essential for defining the inclination and orientation of elements within a design.

• Segment Dimension Tool: This tool allows for dimensioning individual segments within a polyline or curve. This is beneficial when working with complex shapes or contours.

Each tool possesses unique characteristics. Each is designed to solve a particular dimensioning need, offering flexibility and control over the annotation process.

Advantages of Dimension Tools vs. Manual Creation

While it is possible to create dimension lines and text manually, utilizing CorelDRAW's dedicated dimension tools offers several distinct advantages.

• Accuracy: Dimension tools leverage object snapping features, ensuring precise measurement points. This minimizes the risk of human error and guarantees accuracy.

• Efficiency: Dimension tools automate the creation of dimension lines, extension lines, and text, saving significant time and effort compared to manual creation.

• Consistency: Dimension tools maintain consistent formatting across all dimensions within a drawing. This ensures a professional and uniform appearance.

• Editability: Dimensions created with dedicated tools remain linked to the measured objects. Any changes to the object will automatically update the dimension, maintaining accuracy throughout the design process.

By leveraging the power of CorelDRAW's dimension tools, designers can streamline their workflow, improve accuracy, and create professional-grade technical drawings.

Understanding the Parallel Dimension Tool: Functionality and Use Cases

Dimensioning is a critical aspect of technical drawings and design within CorelDRAW. It serves as the language through which precise measurements and specifications are communicated. By accurately annotating designs, dimensions provide the necessary information for manufacturing, construction, and other downstream processes.

This section aims to introduce the Parallel Dimension Tool, explore its underlying functionality, and highlight practical scenarios where its capabilities are most effectively leveraged. By understanding the nuances of this tool, designers can enhance the precision and clarity of their technical documentation.

Defining the Parallel Dimension Tool

The Parallel Dimension Tool in CorelDRAW is designed to create dimension lines that are parallel to the line or object being measured. Unlike horizontal or vertical dimension tools, which are constrained to specific axes, the Parallel Dimension Tool offers the flexibility to measure distances along any arbitrary angle.

This adaptability makes it particularly useful when dealing with angled lines or complex geometries where traditional dimensioning methods would prove cumbersome or inaccurate. The tool automatically aligns the dimension line to the selected segment, providing a direct and easily interpretable measurement.

Use Cases: When to Choose Parallel Dimensioning

The Parallel Dimension Tool excels in situations where objects are not aligned orthogonally. Consider these common scenarios:

• Measuring Angled Lines: The most straightforward application is measuring the length of a line that is not perfectly horizontal or vertical. This is common in architectural plans, mechanical drawings, and various design layouts.

• Isometric Drawings: In isometric projections, objects are represented with all three axes equally foreshortened. The Parallel Dimension Tool allows for accurate measurement of lengths along these angled axes, preserving the proportions of the isometric view.

• Chamfers and Bevels: When detailing chamfers or bevels on objects, the Parallel Dimension Tool can quickly specify the length of the angled edge, which is essential for manufacturing and fabrication processes.

• Rooftop Plans: Many rooftops, especially in architectural drawings, involve angled surfaces. Using the Parallel Dimension Tool makes it simpler to measure and annotate those surfaces correctly.

Parallel vs. Other Dimension Tools

Understanding when to use the Parallel Dimension Tool requires differentiating it from other dimensioning options in CorelDRAW:

• Horizontal/Vertical Dimension Tools: These are ideal for measuring distances along the X and Y axes, respectively. They are simple to use but unsuitable for angled measurements.

• Angular Dimension Tool: This tool measures the angle between two lines. While related to angled objects, it provides angular measurements rather than linear distances, fulfilling a different purpose.

• Segment Dimension Tool: Measures the total length of multiple segments.

The key is to choose the tool that best reflects the intended measurement and ensures clarity in the final drawing. The Parallel Dimension Tool fills a critical niche by enabling precise dimensioning of non-orthogonal elements.

Choosing the appropriate tool depends on the information you want to convey. The Parallel Dimension Tool’s ability to align dimension lines directly with the object being measured sets it apart, making it indispensable for specific applications. By understanding its functionality and comparing it to other options, designers can make informed decisions and create accurate, professional-quality technical drawings.

Preparing Your Workspace for Accurate Parallel Dimensioning

Dimensioning is a critical aspect of technical drawings and design within CorelDRAW. It serves as the language through which precise measurements and specifications are communicated. By accurately annotating designs, dimensions provide the necessary information for manufacturing, construction, or any process that requires adherence to specific sizes and tolerances. To ensure the effectiveness of dimensioning, the workspace needs to be configured optimally. This section outlines the essential preparatory steps to create a productive and accurate environment for utilizing the Parallel Dimension Tool in CorelDRAW.

Opening or Creating a Document

The initial step in any CorelDRAW project is to either open an existing document or create a new one. The choice depends on whether you are adding dimensions to a pre-existing design or starting from scratch.

To open an existing document, navigate to File > Open or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+O. Locate the CorelDRAW file (.cdr) on your computer and select it to open.

To create a new document, go to File > New or use the shortcut Ctrl+N. This will open the "Create a New Document" dialog box.

Specify the document's dimensions (width and height), primary color mode (CMYK or RGB), and resolution. Select the correct document size and resolution based on the intended final output of the design.

Leveraging Object Snapping for Precision

Object snapping is a powerful feature in CorelDRAW that allows you to precisely align objects to specific points on other objects or the drawing grid. Accurate dimensioning relies heavily on object snapping to ensure that the dimension lines begin and end at the intended locations.

Without object snapping, manually aligning dimension lines becomes prone to errors, which can lead to inaccurate measurements.

Activating and Configuring Object Snapping

To activate object snapping, go to View > Snapping and ensure that "Snap to Objects" is checked. This will enable the primary object snapping functionality.

To configure the specific snapping options, go to View > Snapping > Snap to Objects Settings. This opens the "Options" dialog box, where you can customize which object snapping points are active.

Commonly used snapping points include:

• Node: Snaps to the corner points or nodes of an object.
• Edge: Snaps to the edges or outlines of an object.
• Midpoint: Snaps to the exact center of a line or curve segment.
• Center: Snaps to the center point of an object.
• Intersection: Snaps to the intersection of two lines or objects.

Enable the snapping points that are most relevant to your dimensioning tasks. Activating too many snapping points can sometimes make it difficult to select the desired point, so it's best to keep the selection focused.

Adjust the snapping sensitivity to control how close the cursor needs to be to a snapping point before it activates. A higher sensitivity makes snapping easier, while a lower sensitivity requires more precise cursor placement.

Setting Units of Measurement

Specifying the correct units of measurement is essential for accurate dimensioning. CorelDRAW supports a variety of units, including inches, millimeters, points, pixels, and more.

The appropriate unit depends on the project's requirements and the standards used in the relevant industry or field.

To set the units of measurement, go to Tools > Options > Document > General. In the "Units" section, choose the desired unit from the "Horizontal" and "Vertical" dropdown menus.

Setting the correct units ensures that the dimension values displayed are meaningful and consistent with the project's specifications.

Consider that changing the units after dimensions have been created can affect the dimensions, so it's best to set them at the beginning of the project.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying the Parallel Dimension Tool

Dimensioning is a critical aspect of technical drawings and design within CorelDRAW. It serves as the language through which precise measurements and specifications are communicated. By accurately annotating designs, dimensions provide the necessary information for manufacturing, construction, and other related processes. This section provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to effectively applying the Parallel Dimension Tool in CorelDRAW.

Selecting the Parallel Dimension Tool

The first step in utilizing the Parallel Dimension Tool is locating and selecting it from the CorelDRAW toolbox.

By default, the Dimension Tools are nested together.

To access the Parallel Dimension Tool:

1. Locate the Dimension Tools group in the toolbox, typically found on the left side of the CorelDRAW interface.
2. Click and hold on the Dimension Tools icon to reveal a flyout menu.
3. Select the Parallel Dimension Tool from the flyout menu. This action makes the tool active and ready for use.
4. Alternatively, you can also select it from the Dimension Tools docker/panel.

Defining Start and End Points

Once the Parallel Dimension Tool is selected, the next step involves defining the start and end points of the dimension. This is achieved by clicking on the desired locations on the object being measured.

Accuracy is crucial at this stage, as the precision of the dimension depends heavily on the correct placement of these points.

1. Position the cursor at the precise location where the dimension should begin.
2. Click once to set the first point. It is recommended to leverage CorelDRAW's object snapping features (Node, Edge, Midpoint) to ensure accurate placement.
3. Move the cursor to the desired end point of the dimension.
4. Click again to set the second point. CorelDRAW will now display a preliminary dimension line.

Positioning the Dimension Line

After defining the start and end points, the next step is to position the dimension line appropriately. The placement of the dimension line affects the readability and clarity of the drawing.

1. Move the cursor away from the object. The dimension line will dynamically adjust its position based on the cursor’s movement.
2. Click a third time to fix the dimension line in its desired location.
3. Consider the surrounding elements of the drawing and position the dimension line so that it does not overlap with other objects or text.

Understanding Extension Lines (Witness Lines)

Extension lines, also known as witness lines, are an integral part of dimensioning. They extend from the object being measured to the dimension line, visually connecting the dimension to the feature it represents.

1. Extension lines indicate the exact points between which the dimension is measured.
2. They typically extend slightly beyond the dimension line, providing a clear visual separation between the object and the dimension.
3. CorelDRAW automatically generates extension lines when using the Parallel Dimension Tool. The appearance (length, gap) is customizable.
4. The length of extension lines should be consistent throughout the drawing to maintain visual harmony. They should be long enough to be clear, but not so long as to be distracting.

Customizing the Look and Feel of Your Parallel Dimensions

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying the Parallel Dimension Tool Dimensioning is a critical aspect of technical drawings and design within CorelDRAW. It serves as the language through which precise measurements and specifications are communicated. By accurately annotating designs, dimensions provide the necessary information for manufacturing, construction...

Beyond accurate placement and measurement, the visual presentation of dimensions plays a crucial role in the overall clarity and professional appearance of technical drawings. CorelDRAW offers extensive customization options to tailor the look and feel of parallel dimensions, allowing designers to precisely control how information is conveyed. This section delves into these customization capabilities, providing a detailed guide to modifying text, arrows, line thickness, and spacing.

Accessing Dimension Formatting Options

CorelDRAW provides multiple avenues for accessing dimension formatting options, primarily through the Property Bar (context-sensitive) when a dimension is selected and the Object Properties docker (or panel).

The Property Bar offers quick access to commonly adjusted attributes like arrowhead style, text precision, and line thickness.

The Object Properties docker, accessible via Window > Dockers > Object Properties, offers a more comprehensive range of settings, including advanced text formatting, unit adjustments, and tolerance specifications. Understanding both access points is essential for efficient customization.

Adjusting Text Precision

The precision of dimension text, defined by the number of displayed decimal places, directly impacts the level of detail conveyed. In the Object Properties docker, under the 'Units' section, you can specify the desired number of decimal places.

Increasing precision can be valuable for intricate designs requiring fine measurements, while reducing precision can simplify drawings and enhance readability when minute variations are inconsequential. Selecting the appropriate precision is paramount for effective communication.

Modifying Arrowheads and Terminators

The style and size of arrowheads (or terminators) attached to dimension lines significantly influence visual clarity. CorelDRAW offers a variety of arrowhead styles, including traditional arrows, ticks (oblique strokes), and dots.

These can be selected and customized in the Property Bar or within the Object Properties docker under the 'Lines' section.

Furthermore, the size of the arrowheads can be adjusted to maintain proportionality with the overall drawing scale. Choosing appropriate arrowheads ensures that dimension lines are clearly defined and easily distinguishable.

Altering Line Weight and Color

The thickness (weight) and color of dimension lines and extension lines (witness lines) are essential for visual differentiation and emphasis. The Outline Pen Tool, accessible from the toolbox or via the Object Properties docker, allows for precise control over these attributes.

Increasing line weight can highlight critical dimensions, while adjusting the color can distinguish different dimension types or drawing layers. Proper management of line weight and color contributes significantly to the overall organization and readability of the drawing.

Adjusting Dimension Line Spacing

The spacing between dimension lines, dimension text, and extension lines directly impacts the clarity and visual appeal of the drawing. Insufficient spacing can lead to text overlap and visual clutter, while excessive spacing can create a disjointed appearance.

Within the Object Properties docker (Lines section), you can fine-tune these gaps to achieve optimal readability. Experimentation and careful observation are crucial in finding the perfect balance for each drawing.

Editing and Refining Existing Parallel Dimensions

Customizing the Look and Feel of Your Parallel Dimensions Step-by-Step Guide: Applying the Parallel Dimension Tool Dimensioning is a critical aspect of technical drawings and design within CorelDRAW. It serves as the language through which precise measurements and specifications are communicated. By accurately annotating designs, dimensions provide clarity and ensure precision in execution. However, the initial placement of dimensions may not always be optimal. Therefore, understanding how to edit and refine existing parallel dimensions is crucial for achieving professional and accurate results.

This section will explore the techniques and tools available within CorelDRAW for modifying dimensions after their creation. We will cover selecting, repositioning, editing text, and adjusting the shapes of dimension lines to enhance readability and accuracy.

Selecting Dimensions for Modification

The initial step in editing any dimension is selecting it. CorelDRAW provides the Pick Tool for this purpose.

Simply click on the dimension line, dimension text, or either of the extension lines to select the entire dimension object.

Once selected, the dimension will display handles, indicating that it is ready for modification. It's important to ensure the entire dimension is selected, not just a component, to avoid unintended alterations.

Repositioning Dimension and Extension Lines

Readability is paramount in technical drawings. Overlapping or poorly placed dimension lines can lead to misinterpretation.

CorelDRAW allows for the repositioning of both dimension lines and extension lines to improve clarity.

Moving Dimension Lines: Select the dimension and then click and drag the dimension line to a new location. Consider proximity to the object being measured and avoid placing dimension lines too close to other elements.

Adjusting Extension Lines: Extension lines, also known as witness lines, define the points to which the dimension refers.

Select the dimension and click and drag the handles located at the ends of the extension lines to adjust their length or position.

Ensure that extension lines clearly indicate the measured feature without obstructing other parts of the drawing.

Editing Dimension Text

The dimension text displays the measured value. Editing this text is sometimes necessary to add prefixes, suffixes, or tolerances.

The Text Tool within CorelDRAW facilitates this process.

Accessing the Text Editing Mode: Double-click on the dimension text with the Text Tool selected. This activates the text editing mode, allowing you to modify the displayed value.

Adding Prefixes and Suffixes: You can add prefixes (e.g., "Ø" for diameter) or suffixes (e.g., "mm" for millimeters) to the dimension text to provide additional context.

These additions clarify the meaning of the measurement without altering the underlying value.

Implementing Tolerances: Tolerances indicate the acceptable range of variation for a dimension. CorelDRAW allows you to add tolerance values directly to the dimension text.

For example, you can display a dimension as "50 ± 0.1," indicating that the acceptable range is 49.9 to 50.1.

Careful specification of tolerances is crucial for ensuring the proper fit and function of manufactured parts.

Adjusting Dimension Line Shape with the Shape Tool

While most dimensions are straight lines, curved dimension lines can be useful in specific situations. The Shape Tool enables the manipulation of dimension line shapes.

Select the dimension, then select the Shape Tool. The dimension line will display nodes, allowing you to drag and reshape the line.

This can be useful for creating dimensions that follow the contour of a curved object or for avoiding obstructions in the drawing.

Experimentation is encouraged, but always prioritize clarity and accuracy. Overly complex dimension lines can confuse the reader.

Advanced Parallel Dimensioning Techniques

Dimensioning is a critical aspect of technical drawings and design within CorelDRAW. It serves as the language through which precise measurements and specifications are communicated. By now, you should be comfortable with the basic application and customization of parallel dimensions. This section elevates your skillset by introducing advanced techniques: tolerances, dimension styles, and integrated dimensioning. Mastering these will enhance accuracy, consistency, and overall drawing quality.

Applying Tolerances to Dimensions

Tolerances are essential in engineering and manufacturing. They specify the permissible variation in a dimension. This acknowledges that perfect precision is often unattainable or unnecessary. CorelDRAW allows you to add tolerances directly to your dimensions.

Understanding Tolerance Types

Tolerances can be expressed in several ways. The most common is bilateral tolerance (+/-), indicating equal permissible variation above and below the nominal dimension. Unilateral tolerances specify variation in only one direction (+ or -). Limit tolerances define the upper and lower acceptable limits of the dimension. CorelDRAW supports the creation of these tolerance types.

Implementing Tolerances in CorelDRAW

To add a tolerance, first, select the dimension using the Pick Tool. Then, access the Object Properties docker (Window > Dockers > Object Properties). Navigate to the "Dimension" section. You will find options to specify the tolerance type and the upper and lower tolerance values. Entering these values will automatically update the dimension text to reflect the tolerance range. Always double-check these values to ensure accuracy.

Utilizing Dimension Styles for Consistency

In complex drawings, maintaining consistent dimension formatting is crucial for clarity and professionalism. Dimension styles allow you to define and apply a set of formatting attributes to multiple dimensions. This streamlines the dimensioning process and ensures a uniform look throughout your drawing.

Creating Dimension Styles

To create a dimension style, format a dimension to your desired specifications (font, arrow style, line thickness, etc.). With the formatted dimension selected, navigate to Object > Object Styles > Create Style From. In the "Create Style" dialog box, select "Dimension" as the style type and give your style a descriptive name. Click "OK" to save the style.

Applying and Managing Dimension Styles

To apply a dimension style, select the dimension(s) you want to format. Then, in the Object Styles docker (Window > Dockers > Object Styles), locate the dimension style you created and double-click it. The selected dimensions will automatically inherit the formatting attributes of the style. You can modify the dimension style at any time to update all dimensions using that style. Right-click on the style in the Object Styles docker and select "Edit Style". Remember to save the document after creating or modifying styles.

Integrating Dimensions with Drawing Elements

Advanced dimensioning often involves dynamically linking dimensions to specific points on objects. This ensures that the dimensions update automatically when the objects are modified. This feature enhances the accuracy and efficiency of your workflow.

Connecting Dimensions to Objects

When using the dimension tools, ensure that object snapping is enabled. This will allow you to precisely select the desired points on the object. If you move or resize the object, the dimension will update to reflect the changes.

Dynamic Dimensioning Considerations

Be aware that dynamic dimensioning relies on the integrity of the underlying geometry. If you significantly alter the object's shape or delete the referenced points, the dimension may become invalid or display incorrect values. Always review your dimensions after making substantial changes to your drawing.

Troubleshooting Common Parallel Dimensioning Issues

Dimensioning is a critical aspect of technical drawings and design within CorelDRAW. It serves as the language through which precise measurements and specifications are communicated. By now, you should be comfortable with the basic application and customization of parallel dimensions. This section elevates your understanding further by addressing and resolving common issues encountered while using the Parallel Dimension Tool.

Here, we will explore practical solutions for overcoming challenges like text overlap, inaccurate readings, and object snapping problems. Mastering these troubleshooting techniques ensures accuracy, efficiency, and professional-quality results in your designs.

Resolving Dimension Text Overlap

Text overlap is a frequent issue in dimensioning, especially in complex drawings with limited space. Overlapping text can obscure dimension lines, making it difficult to read measurements accurately.

Here are several strategies to address text overlap effectively:

• Adjusting Text Position: Experiment with different text positions relative to the dimension line. CorelDRAW offers options to place the text above, below, or centered on the dimension line. Selecting a suitable position can often resolve overlap.
• Moving Dimension Lines: Reposition the entire dimension line further away from other objects. This creates more space for the text to display without interference. Be mindful of maintaining clarity and avoiding excessive distance from the measured object.
• Reducing Text Size: Decrease the font size of the dimension text to fit within the available space. While effective, ensure that the text remains legible.
• Adding a Leader Line: Use a leader line to move the dimension text to a clearer area away from the object. Leader lines connect the text to the dimension line with an arrow, indicating the relevant measurement.
• Manual Text Editing: As a last resort, manually edit the dimension text to shorten it or use abbreviations. However, exercise caution and ensure that the meaning remains clear and unambiguous. Consider using a drawing legend to define any abbreviations used.

Correcting Inaccurate Dimension Readings

Inaccurate dimension readings can undermine the integrity of your drawings. These inaccuracies usually stem from improper object snapping or incorrect unit settings.

The following steps will help ensure accurate measurements:

• Verifying Object Snapping: Ensure that object snapping is enabled and configured correctly. Activate relevant snapping points, such as "Node," "Edge," and "Midpoint," to precisely select the intended measurement points.
• Confirming Unit Settings: Double-check the document's unit settings to match the intended units of measurement (e.g., inches, millimeters). Inconsistencies between unit settings and the drawing scale can lead to significant errors.
• Checking Drawing Scale: Verify that the drawing is scaled correctly. An incorrect drawing scale can skew dimension readings, resulting in inaccurate measurements. Recalibrate the drawing if needed.
• Redrawing the Dimension: Delete and redraw the dimension to ensure accurate snapping and measurement. Sometimes, glitches in the software can cause inaccurate dimensions that are best resolved by starting fresh.
• Zooming In: Zoom in on the area being dimensioned to ensure that the snap points are accurate. It is easy to be slightly off when zoomed out, causing errors in the final dimensions.

Troubleshooting Object Snapping Issues

Difficulties in snapping to desired points can hinder the dimensioning process. These issues often arise from improper snap settings, overlapping objects, or drawing complexity.

Here are practical solutions to address object snapping problems:

• Adjusting Snap Settings: Refine your object snapping settings to prioritize the specific points you need to snap to. Deactivate irrelevant snap points to reduce clutter and improve precision.
• Using Snap to Guidelines: Create temporary guidelines to assist with snapping to specific locations. Guidelines provide visual cues and snapping points to ensure accurate alignment.
• Isolating Objects: Hide or temporarily move overlapping objects that are interfering with snapping. This allows you to focus on the specific object you need to dimension.
• Increasing Snap Radius: Increase the snap radius to make it easier to snap to points that are slightly off the cursor. However, be careful not to increase it too much, as this can lead to snapping to the wrong points.
• Restarting CorelDRAW: As with many software issues, restarting CorelDRAW can resolve temporary glitches that may be affecting object snapping functionality.
• Checking for Conflicting Snaps: Look out for scenarios where multiple snap points are in close proximity. CorelDRAW may be struggling to determine which point you are intending to snap to. Zooming in or disabling less relevant snaps can resolve this.

So, there you have it! Editing parallel dimension tool in CorelDRAW might seem a little tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, you'll be adding dimensions like a pro. Now, go forth and create some awesome designs, and don't be afraid to experiment!