Introduction to Graphics

In earlier versions like VB6, drawing shapes was easy because built-in shape controls were available.

In VB.NET (including VB2015), you must write code to create graphics. Although this is slightly more complex, it gives you much more flexibility and control.

You can now create:

• Lines
• Shapes
• Custom drawings
• Advanced graphics

Before drawing anything, you must create a Graphics object.

Dim myGraphics As Graphics = Me.CreateGraphics()

Other examples:

Dim myGraphics As Graphics = PictureBox1.CreateGraphics()

Dim myGraphics As Graphics = TextBox1.CreateGraphics()

This object allows you to draw on forms and controls.

A Pen is used to draw lines and shapes.

Dim myPen As New Pen(Color.Blue, 5)

Example:

Dim myPen As New Pen(Brushes.DarkMagenta, 10)

• First argument → Color
• Second argument → Line width

Private Sub BtnDraw_Click(...) Handles BtnDraw.Click

Dim g As Graphics = Me.CreateGraphics()
Dim pen As New Pen(Brushes.DarkMagenta, 10)

g.DrawLine(pen, 60, 180, 220, 50)

End Sub

Syntax:

DrawLine(Pen, x1, y1, x2, y2)

(x1, y1) = starting point (x2, y2) = ending point