Distribute objects by specific distances

Last updated on Jun 25, 2026

Learn how to precisely distribute objects by specific distances in Illustrator.

Select the objects that you want to distribute using the Selection tool.

Press Shift to select multiple objects.

Select again on the object you want to use as a key object using the Selection tool without pressing the Shift key.

Select Window > Align.

In the Align panel, select More options > Show Options.

In the Align panel, select one of the given Distribute Spacing options and enter the exact distance you want between objects:

  • Vertical Distribute Space: Spaces objects evenly from top to bottom, based on the entered value.
  • Horizontal Distribute Space: Spaces objects evenly from left to right, based on the entered value.
The Align panel is displayed on the screen showcasing the options to select Distribute Spacing options and enter the amount of space to appear between objects.
Enter a value in the Distribute Spacing field to control the exact spacing between objects.

Note

When you enter a value in the Distribute Spacing field, Illustrator shows a live preview of the updated spacing so you can review the result before applying it.