How do I do reverse engraving in Corel Draw 12?

In CorelDRAW 12, creating a reverse engraving effect involves using the PowerTRACE feature to convert an image or text into a vector format, and then manipulating the vectors to achieve the desired result. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Reverse Engraving Effect in CorelDRAW 12:

1. Import or Create the Design:

   • Open CorelDRAW 12 and either import the image or create the text/design you want to apply the reverse engraving effect to.

2. Convert to Bitmap (Optional):

   • If you are starting with vector text or shapes, you may want to convert them to a bitmap before applying the effect. Select the object, go to "Bitmaps" in the menu, and choose "Convert to Bitmap."

3. PowerTRACE:

   • Select the image or bitmap text.
   • Navigate to "Bitmaps" in the menu and choose "PowerTRACE" > "Quick Trace."
   • Adjust the trace settings in the PowerTRACE dialog box. You can experiment with different options to get the desired level of detail and contrast.
   • Click "OK" to apply the trace.

4. Modify the Vectors:

   • After PowerTRACE, you'll have a vector representation of your image or text.
   • Ungroup the traced objects (Ctrl + U) to have individual vector elements.
   • Delete unnecessary elements or nodes to simplify the design.

5. Adjust Fill and Stroke:

   • For the reverse engraving effect, you usually want the engraved part to be filled with a color and the surrounding area to have no fill.
   • Select the areas you want to engrave and fill them with the desired color.
   • Remove the fill for the surrounding areas.

6. Add Shading (Optional):

   • To enhance the engraving effect, you can add shading or gradients to the engraved areas. Use the Gradient tool to apply shading effects.

7. Fine-Tune and Adjust:

   • Fine-tune the design by adjusting the position, size, and properties of the vector elements.
   • Experiment with different fill and stroke settings to achieve the desired engraved appearance.

8. Preview and Save:

   • Preview your design to ensure that the reverse engraving effect looks as intended.
   • Save your work in the desired file format.

Remember that the steps may vary based on the specific design elements you are working with. It's a good practice to experiment with different settings and adjustments to achieve the exact look you want for the reverse engraving effect.

Keep in mind that CorelDRAW 12 is an older version, and the features mentioned here are based on the capabilities available in that version  If you have access to a more recent version of CorelDRAW, additional features and tools may be available for achieving similar effects.