Problem
Shape-layer boolean operations create unexpected holes when paths overlap in complex icons.
Solution
Root Cause / Diagnostic:
Shape layer groups utilize vector fill rules based on Non-Zero Winding or Even-Odd winding logic to determine positive versus negative fill space. When multiple sub-paths with conflicting path directions (clockwise vs. counter-clockwise) overlap or interact within 'Merge Paths' operators, overlapping areas cancel each other out. This produces transparent cutouts, inverted fills, or missing geometric cores inside complex vector illustrations.
Actionable Fix:
1. Expand the shape layer path properties and reverse path direction on individual problem sub-paths by toggling the 'Reverse Path Direction' button.
2. Set the 'Merge Paths' operator mode explicitly to 'Add' or change the Shape Fill rule from 'Even-Odd' to 'Non-Zero Winding' within the path contents menu.
3. Toggle layer solo mode against a high-contrast magenta solid background to visually confirm that all interior icon geometries fill solidly without negative cutouts.
Pro Tip:
Separate distinct icon elements into individual shape groups or dedicated shape layers rather than compounding extensive vector sub-paths under a single complex Merge Paths operator.
Shape layer groups utilize vector fill rules based on Non-Zero Winding or Even-Odd winding logic to determine positive versus negative fill space. When multiple sub-paths with conflicting path directions (clockwise vs. counter-clockwise) overlap or interact within 'Merge Paths' operators, overlapping areas cancel each other out. This produces transparent cutouts, inverted fills, or missing geometric cores inside complex vector illustrations.
Actionable Fix:
1. Expand the shape layer path properties and reverse path direction on individual problem sub-paths by toggling the 'Reverse Path Direction' button.
2. Set the 'Merge Paths' operator mode explicitly to 'Add' or change the Shape Fill rule from 'Even-Odd' to 'Non-Zero Winding' within the path contents menu.
3. Toggle layer solo mode against a high-contrast magenta solid background to visually confirm that all interior icon geometries fill solidly without negative cutouts.
Pro Tip:
Separate distinct icon elements into individual shape groups or dedicated shape layers rather than compounding extensive vector sub-paths under a single complex Merge Paths operator.