Create and modify shapes and paths
Last updated on
Nov. 15, 2022
Learn the essential components of designing in Illustrator and start creating stunning artwork.
Shapes and paths
Combine vector objects in Illustrator to create multiple shapes.
How do I create paths and shapes?
- To create a path for a vector image, place a series of segments and anchor points. Close the path to convert it to a shape.
- To create a smooth shape that can be scaled to any size, tweak angles and curves of the anchor points.
|
|
Align, Snap, Path Finder, and Global Edit options to arrange or lay out your artwork. |
|
Create an offset path |
|
|
Apply effects |
Choose effects from the Effect menu. |
|
Free tracing or drawing |
Watch this tutorial to learn the basics of creating and editing shapes.
Text and fonts
Text effects in Illustrator help you style your content in many ways. You can choose from a variety of styles, such as retro, blur, smoky, 3D, and so many more.
How do I stylize the text?
|
Character panel or Paragraph panel |
|
Fine-tune the set of fonts (Type > Glyphs) |
|
|
Change the orientation, type on a path, fit your text in a geometric or organic shape. |
|
|
Convert Type to a vector shape (Type > Create Outlines) |
Create outlines |
Watch this tutorial to add text to your designs and stylize them.
Colors and Patterns
Apply different colors and patterns to give a realistic touch to your artwork.
How do I add colors and patterns in my artwork?
|
Add fill and stroke colors |
|
|
Add colors and patterns from libraries |
|
|
Create your own set of swatches from images or vectors |
|
|
Modify single or multiple colors in an artwork |
Recolor artwork option in Properties panel |
|
Apply a blend of two or more colors |
|
|
Apply colors and create realistic artwork |
|
|
Paint different path segments and fill enclosed paths with different colors, patterns, or gradients |
Live Paint feature and Shape Builder tools |
|
Create new complex new shapes by merging simple shapes |
|
|
Limitless opportunities for creativity |
|
|
Create strokes with variable width that make very articulate outlines |
|
|
Create patterns using shape and color |
|
Watch this tutorial to add colors, strokes, and gradients to your artwork.
Images and special effects
Modify and add effects to enhance the beauty of your images. Make your photo as small as a stamp and as significant as a poster.
How do I modify the images?
|
Crop images |
Object > Crop Image |
|
Create organic shape of images |
Object > Clipping Mask |
|
Trace images to create vector images |
|
|
Add effects on overlapping images, shapes, or text |
Blending options in Transparency panel |
|
Other apps |
Watch this tutorial to add images and artistic effects to your artwork.
Got a question or an idea?
If you have a question to ask or an idea to share, come and participate in Adobe Illustrator Community. We'd love to hear from you.
Adobe MAX
The Creativity Conference
Oct 14–16 Miami Beach and online
Adobe MAX
The Creativity Conference
Oct 14–16 Miami Beach and online