Embodiments are disclosed for receiving a target shape. The method may further include initializing a gradient mesh to a vector graphic having at least one node. The method may further include performing a constrained optimization of the vector graphic based on the target shape. The method may further include generating a stress metric based on a comparison of the constrained optimization and the target shape. The method may further include determining one or more unconstrained candidate vector graphics based on the stress metric. The method may further include selecting an improved vector graphic from the one or more unconstrained candidate vector graphics. The method may further include mapping the vector graphic to the improved vector graphic. The method may further include optimizing the improved vector graphic based on the target shape.