Holding down ‘ALT’ whilst on the shape builder tool will allow you to delete segments. You may be left with some unwanted parts on your shape. Drag your cursor through all the segments you would like to include. Select all your shapes and choose the ‘Shape Builder Tool’ (keyboard shortcut: Shift + M). (This will show in a thick blue outline). Choose ‘Align to Key Object’ in the drop-down menu and click on the object you want to align to. To do this open the Align panel (Window > Align) and select the objects you want to align.

In this instance, we want to create a flat base for our cloud. As you practice using this tool, you’ll discover it will make creating more complex vector graphics and logos significantly easier.Ĭreate the initial base of your shape by drawing out several overlapping elements. The same rules will apply to any custom shape you would like to build. In this instance, we’ll show you how to create a simple cloud shape. How to use the Illustrator shape builder tool If you want multiple objects to move within an area as one entity, group them first (Cmd + G). Align to Artboard– allows you to align selected objects based on their correlation to your artboard.You can also enter an exact spacing with this option. Align to Key Object– allows you to align selected objects in regard to the positioning of a chosen object.Align to Selection– allows you to align selected objects based on the bounding box all selected objects sit within.Enter the size before clicking the distribute spacing button (vertical or horizontal depending on the orientation you want). If you require an exact spacing measurement between your objects, select ‘Align to Key Object’ in the drop-down menu. To distribute the objects evenly, use the distribute spacing option. Select ‘Vertical Align Centre’ (or ‘Horizontal Align Centre’ if want to stack the objects). In this instance, we’re aligning to the selection (these are highlighted by the blue path outline). You can choose what you’d like to align your objects to your selected items, a key object or the artboard. How to align and evenly distribute objectsįirstly, go to ‘Window’ and select ‘Align’ from the drop-down menu to make sure the panel is visible. We wanted to share a few useful tips and tricks for when you are beginning your journey with Adobe Illustrator.

When learning a new programme, it is exciting to discover the extensive capabilities at your fingertips, however, when there is so much to take in, it can also be a little overwhelming at times.

Lay text down adobe illustrator