‘Pen Tool’ — The most powerful drawing tool

‘Pen Tool’ — The most powerful drawing tool

If you ask beginners or experienced designers which tool is the hardest to use for them, I believe 9 out of 10 people would say it is the Pen Tool.

The Pen Tool is probably the most powerful tool in Adobe Illustrator. It is one of the foundational tools of Illustrator, first introduced into design software by Adobe in Adobe Illustrator more than 30 years ago.

Using the Pen Tool, you can create any line or shape that you can conceive. It allows you to create new anchor points, add anchor points to existing paths, and remove anchor points from existing paths. The tool’s appearance changes based on what your cursor is hovering over on the artboard.

It is quite tricky to use but once you get a grip on it you can create magic.

These simple steps will teach you how to manage all those handles and curves. And finally, in the end, you can find the tutorial I made, showing you with a simple example, how to put it in a use.

Create Straight Lines

Select the Pen Tool from the toolbar or hit P on the keyboard, click to create points, each point will create a straight connecting line. If you hold down the Shift Key you will get lines at 45 or 90 degrees.

Straight Lines

Create Curved Lines

If you click and drag you will see small handles, called bezier handles, that will form curved lines. You can combine straight and curved lines by pressing the Option Key (macOS) or Alt Key (Windows) in the transition.

Convert a Straight Line to Curved Line

With the Pen Tool selected hold down the Alt Key and the Pen Tool will change to the CONVERT Anchor Point Tool. Click on the point and pull to create a curved line. You can also move bezier handles independently.

Convert a Straight Line to Curved Line

Move Points and Bezier Handles

With the Pen Tool selected hold down the Command Key (macOS) or Ctrl Key (Windows) and the Pen Tool will change to the Direct Selection Tool. Click on the handle and pull or rotate.

Delete / Add Points

With the Pen Tool selected if you hover over an existing point, the cursor will change to the Delete Anchor Point Tool. When you hover over an existing line segment the cursor will change to the Add Anchor Point Tool.

Editing Anchor points

Select the anchor point you want to change with the Direct Selection Tool (A). You can select individual anchor points and edit the existing points and their handles. Select one of the handles and drag it out.

To continue editing an unclosed path, just select the path with the Selection Tool. Want to end your line? Press ESC on the keyboard or hold down the Command Key (macOS) or Ctrl Key (Windows) and click on the artboard to deselect and end the line.

What you can do with the pen tool is limitless once you master how to control those tricky anchor points.

I prepared a video with the previous steps, take a look, and give it a try.

Keep learning, You rock!

Rocketship in Adobe Illustrator

You can download the file here and practice!

Online Graphic Design School

Tutorial – Blend tool Effect – Adobe Illustrator

In Adobe Illustrator, the Blend Tool can be used to create a number of different effects. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to use the Blend Tool to create a gradient effect. First, we’ll create two shapes. Then, we’ll use the Blend Tool to blend the colours of the two shapes together. Finally, we’ll add a little bit of shading to give our gradient effect some depth.

Introduction: What is the blend tool and what are its capabilities?

In this tutorial, we’ll be exploring the Blend Tool in Adobe Illustrator. The Blend Tool can be used to create smooth colour transitions between two objects. It can also be used to create new shapes by blending two existing shapes together. Additionally, the Blend Tool can be used to create graduated colour effects and patterns. Let’s take a closer look at how the Blend Tool works and what it can do!

How to create a basic blend

There are a few things you need to know before you can create a basic blend in Adobe Illustrator. First, you need to make sure that the objects you want to blend are selected. Next, go to the ‘Object’ menu and choose ‘Blend > Make’. A dialogue box will appear asking how many steps you want in the blend. Choose your desired number of steps and click ‘OK’. Your objects will now be blended together!

How to change the attributes of a blend

Assuming you would like a section discussing how to change the attributes of a blend in Adobe Illustrator:

The Blend Tool in Adobe Illustrator allows you to create a seamless transition between two objects. The objects can be of any shape, size, or colour. The tool will automatically create a gradient between the two objects based on the colours involved.

To change the attributes of a blend, first select the blend with the Selection Tool (V). Then go to Object > Blend > Edit Blend Options. This will bring up the Blend Options dialog box. From here you can change the Specified Steps, Orientation, Spacing, and colour Model.

The Specified Steps option lets you set how many steps are in the blend. The more steps there are, the smoother the transition will be.

How to use the blend tool to create special effects

In this tutorial we’re going to have some fun with the Blend Tool in Adobe Illustrator. The Blend Tool can be used to create special effects by blending colours together.

First, let’s create a new document in Adobe Illustrator. We’ll use the Rectangle Tool to create a rectangle that is 4 inches wide and 6 inches tall. Next, we’ll use the Ellipse Tool to create a circle that is 2 inches wide and 2 inches tall.

Now let’s select both shapes and go to Object > Blend > Make. This will create a blend of the two shapes. You can see the results in the Transparency panel.

Next, we’ll add a third shape to our blend. This time we’ll use the Star Tool to create a star that is 1 inch wide and 1 inch tall.

The blend tool can be used to create unique and interesting effects in Adobe Illustrator.

The blend tool is one of the most versatile tools in Adobe Illustrator. With it, you can create a variety of unique and interesting effects.

For example, you can use the blend tool to create a gradient effect. First, select two objects that you want to blend together. Then, click on the blend tool and drag it across the two objects. The result will be a smooth transition between the two colours.

You can also use the blend tool to create 3D effects. To do this, select three objects that you want to blend together. Then, click on the blend tool and drag it across the three objects. The result will be a 3D effect that looks like the object is floating in mid-air.

Finally, you can use the blend tool to create custom shapes. To do this, select two objects that you want to blend together.

Get to know the different types of graphics you can create with the Adobe Illustrator software

Adobe Illustrator is a widely used vector graphic editor developed and marketed by Adobe Inc. It is used by graphic designers and artists to create illustrations, logos, and other graphics. The software offers a variety of features and tools that allow users to create complex graphics. One of the most popular features is the Blend tool, which allows users to create smooth transitions between colours or shapes.

There are four different types of blend modes in Adobe Illustrator: colour, gradient, pattern, and art. Each type has its own set of options that can be used to create different effects. colour blending is the simplest type of blend, and it allows you to transition between two solid colours. Gradient blending lets you create a gradient between two colours, while pattern blending lets you add patterns to your gradients.

There are a variety of graphic types you can create with Adobe Illustrator software. The first type is the object blend. With object blend, you can take two or more objects and blend them together to create a smooth transition between the objects. The next type is the colour blend. colour blend allows you to take two colours and transition between them to create a new colour. The last type is the gradient mesh. Gradient mesh allows you to create a colour gradient within an object.

Tips and tricks for creating amazing graphics with Adobe Illustrator

There’s no denying that Adobe Illustrator is a powerful tool for creating stunning graphics. But what if you’re just getting started with the software? In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks for creating amazing graphics with Adobe Illustrator.

One of the most versatile tools in Illustrator is the Blend tool. With this tool, you can create gradients, blend colours together, and even create 3D effects. To use the Blend tool, simply select two objects and click on the “Blend” button in the toolbar. Then, adjust the settings to control how the colours are blended together.

Another great way to create interesting graphics is to experiment with different brushes. Illustrator comes with a wide variety of default brushes, but you can also find many more online. Once you’ve found a brush you like, simply select it and start painting on your canvas.

Learn about the exciting career opportunities available with graphic design skills

There are many exciting career opportunities available for those with graphic design skills. Graphic designers can find work in a variety of industries, including advertising, publishing, and web design. With the right skills and portfolio, a graphic designer can have a successful and rewarding career.

Most graphic designers have a certification in graphic design or a related field. However, some designers may be self-taught or have had only on-the-job training. Many designers also have experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software and page layout programmes. These days, it’s important for designers to be familiar with both traditional print design and web design.

If you’re interested in a career in graphic design, start by honing your skills and building up your portfolio.

Tracing images in Adobe Illustrator

There are a few different ways that you can go about tracing images in Adobe Illustrator. One popular method is to use the pen tool. With the pen tool, you can draw around the image to create a vector trace. Another option is to use the live trace feature. This will automatically trace your image and turn it into vector artwork. You can also use the Trace command in the Objects menu. This will give you a variety of options for how to trace your image. Experiment with different methods and see which one works best for you!

In Adobe Illustrator, the Blend tool can be used to create a smooth transition between two images. To use the Blend tool, first select the two images that you want to blend together. Then, click on the Blend tool in the toolbar and drag it across the two images. The result will be a seamless transition between the two images.

Different types of graphic design software

There are many different types of graphic design software programmes available on the market today. Some of the more popular ones include Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Inkscape. Each programme has its own unique set of features and tools that can be used to create amazing graphics.

Adobe Photoshop is a widely used programme for creating digital art. It offers a variety of features and tools that allow users to create stunning images. Adobe Illustrator is another popular programme that is often used for creating vector graphics. Inkscape is a free and open source vector graphic editor that can be used to create complex graphics.

Tips and tricks for creating stunning graphics

There are a few key things to keep in mind when creating graphics in Adobe Illustrator. First, start with a high-quality image. The resolution should be at least 300 dpi, and the file format should be either EPS or PDF. Second, use the Pen tool to create your paths. This will give you more control over the final product. Finally, use the Blend tool sparingly and only when absolutely necessary. Overuse can result in a cluttered and confusing design.

When used correctly, the Blend tool can add depth and dimension to your graphics. To create a blend, select two objects and go to Object > Blend > Make. You can then adjust the settings to get the desired effect. Experiment with different settings until you find something that looks good. Just remember to keep it simple – too much blending can make a design look muddy and unclear.

What is Adobe Illustrator?

Adobe Illustrator is a vector graphics editor developed and marketed by Adobe Inc. It was first released in 1987 and has become the industry standard for vector graphics editing, thanks to its wide variety of features and ease of use.

One of the most powerful features of Adobe Illustrator is the Blend tool, which can be used to create smooth transitions between two colours or objects. To use the Blend tool, simply select two objects that you want to blend together, and then click on the “Blend” button in the toolbar.

The Blend tool is a great way to create smooth colour gradients, or to transition between two different shapes. You can also use the Blend tool to create complex patterns and designs by blending multiple objects together.

What are the best tools in Adobe Illustrator?

There’s a lot to like about Adobe Illustrator, but for many designers, the best part is the wealth of tools available. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best tools in Adobe Illustrator and how they can be used to create amazing designs.

The first tool we’ll look at is the Blend tool. The Blend tool allows you to create smooth transitions between two colours or objects. To use the Blend tool, simply select two objects and click on the Blend tool icon in the toolbar. Then, click and drag your mouse over the area where you want the transition to occur. The result is a beautiful transition that looks like it was created by a professional designer.

Next up is the Eraser tool. The Eraser tool is great for cleaning up your design or for creating interesting shapes.

What are some types of graphic design?

Graphic design is the process of visual communication and problem-solving through the use of typography, photography, and iconography. The field is considered a subset of visual communication and communication design, but sometimes the term “graphic design” is used synonymously. Graphic designers create and combine symbols, images, and text to form visual representations of ideas and messages. They use typography, colour, illustration, photography, animation, branding, and other layout techniques to create original graphics.

Common types of graphic design include identity (logos and branding), publications (books, magazines, newspapers), print advertisements, posters, billboards), web design (websites), and product packaging.

There are also many different subcategories of graphic design, such as environmental graphic design, motion graphics, web page layout look & feel creation for desktop or mobile devices etc.

From graphic design to Adobe Illustrator: 7 types of tools you need to know about

Adobe Illustrator is a powerful tool that allows you to create amazing graphics. However, in order to get the most out of it, you need to know about the different types of tools that are available. Here are 7 that you should definitely know about:

The Selection Tool: This is one of the most basic tools and allows you to select individual elements so that you can move, resize or delete them. The Pen Tool: This is a great tool for drawing precise lines and shapes. It can be used to create both straight and curved lines. The Brush Tool: This tool is perfect for creating smooth, flowing lines. It can also be used to add colourand texture to your designs. The Type Tool: This allows you to add text to your design. Using this tool will make it much easier to create and edit text. The Blob Brush Tool: This is a great tool for creating realistic-looking splatters, drips and other natural elements. It can also be used to add water colour effects to your designs. The Paint Bucket Tool: This is a great tool for filling large areas with colour. It can be used to quickly fill your design with the same colour or gradient. The Recolour Tool: Use this tool to recolour any area of your design by simply painting over it.

As a graphic designer, you need to know about the different types of tools available to you in Adobe Illustrator. In this article, we will discuss the Blend tool and how it can be used to create interesting effects.

The Blend tool is used to create a smooth transition between two objects. To use the Blend tool, simply select two objects and click on the “Blend” button in the toolbar. You can then adjust the settings to control the number of steps and the amount of transparency.

The Blend tool is a great way to create subtle transitions between colours or objects. It can also be used to create more dramatic effects, such as fading one object into another. With a little experimentation, you can come up with some really creative uses for the Blend tool.

5 Tips for making the most out of Adobe Illustrator

The first tip is to use the pen tool to create your shapes. This will give you the most control over your design. Another tip is to use the blend tool to create smooth transitions between colours. This can be done by selecting two colours and then clicking on the blend tool. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different effects and filters. Adobe Illustrator has a lot of features that you may not be aware of, so it’s worth taking some time to explore them all. Furthermore, the blend tool can be used to create seamless patterns. To do this you need to select a pattern and then click on the blend tool. From there, you can choose your colours and play around with the settings until you find something you like. To create a seamless pattern in Adobe Illustrator, you can also use the pattern creator tool. This is a built-in tool that you can use to create your own patterns. The best way to learn how it works is by experimenting with it yourself.

3 Types of graphic design opportunities that are on the rise

There are three types of graphic design opportunities that are on the rise: web design, interface design, and animation.

Web design is one of the most in-demand skills today. Companies are always looking for designers who can create beautiful and user-friendly websites. Interface design is another growing area in the graphic design world. As more and more devices are being created, there is a need for designers who can create easy-to-use interfaces for them. Animation is also becoming increasingly popular as a way to communicate messages and tell stories. Graphic designers who can create engaging animations are in high demand.

Graphic design tips: Trends and opportunities

Graphic design is all about creativity, so it’s important to keep your mind open to new ideas and opportunities. Here are a few tips to help you stay ahead of the curve:

Pay attention to trends: Keeping up with current trends is essential for any graphic designer. By being aware of what’s popular, you can ensure that your work is fresh and relevant. Be sure to follow industry news sources and design blogs to stay on top of the latest trends. Take advantage of opportunities: In the world of graphic design, opportunities can come in many forms. Whether it’s a contest, an RFP, or simply an interesting project from a client, be sure to seize every opportunity that comes your way. These experiences can help you grow as a designer and expand your portfolio. Make your portfolio easy to browse Your portfolio is critical to any job search, so make sure that it’s easy for potential clients and employers to navigate and get a sense of your style.

Launch your career in Adobe software with these online learning tips

Adobe offers a wide range of software for creative professionals, from video editing to graphic design. If you’re interested in a career in Adobe software, here are a few online learning tips to help you get started.

Start with the basics. If you’re new to Adobe software, it’s important to start with the basics and build up your skills from there. There are plenty of introductory tutorials available online, so take some time to explore and find the ones that are right for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Once you’ve got the basics down, don’t be afraid to experiment and try out new things. Adobe software is very versatile, so there’s no need to stick to just one way of doing things. Explore all the features and options available to you and see what works best for your needs. Remember to save often. Before you begin a big project, remember to save your work frequently. Creative Cloud gives you 50GB of storage space, so there’s plenty of room for your files and anything else you might want to add later on.

5 Trends in graphic design that Adobe Illustrator can help you create

Graphic design is always evolving and keeping up with the latest trends can be a challenge. Adobe Illustrator is a versatile tool that can help you create designs that are on trend. Here are 5 graphic design trends that you can create using Adobe Illustrator:

Minimalism – This trend is all about stripping back designs to their bare essentials. Creating minimalistic designs in Illustrator can be achieved by using clean lines, simple shapes and a limited colourpalette. Flat design – Flat design has been a popular trend for a few years now and shows no signs of going anywhere. This style of design is characterised by its use of 2D elements and lack of skeuomorphism. Creating flat designs in Illustrator is easy thanks to its vector-based tools and capabilities. Hand-drawn effects – If you want to create a unique and quirky look for your designs, adding hand-drawn effects to them is a great way to do it. Illustrator has lots of different brushes that can be used to add hand drawn elements to designs. Create texture – Adding texture to designs is a great way to add depth and realism. Illustrator has lots of different tools that can be used to create textures. Create a pattern – Creating patterns is a great way to add depth and texture to designs. Illustrator has lots of different tools that can be used to create patterns.

6 Opportunities for Adobe Illustrator users to make a career change

Adobe Illustrator is a versatile programme that can be used for a variety of design tasks. If you’re looking to make a career change, here are six opportunities for Adobe Illustrator users:

Graphic Designer Web Designer Animator UX/UI Designer Illustrator Logo Designer

6 Expert tips for using Adobe Illustrator like a pro

Adobe Illustrator is widely considered to be one of the best vector graphic design tools on the market. Here are 6 tips from experts that will help you get the most out of this powerful software:

Get to know the pen tool. The pen tool is perhaps the most important tool in Adobe Illustrator. Learning how to use it properly will go a long way in helping you create professional-looking designs. Use shapes and paths to create your designs. One of the great things about vector graphics is that they can be created using basic shapes and paths. Experiment with different combinations of shapes and paths to see what kinds of designs you can come up with. Use the grid system to help you position elements accurately. The grid system in Adobe Illustrator can be really helpful when you’re trying to position elements precisely on your canvas. It can also help you create a more balanced composition of your design. Use the pen tool to draw objects accurately. The pen tool in Adobe Illustrator is one of the most versatile tools in the programme. Choose the correct font for your project. Adobe Illustrator has a number of free and paid fonts that can be used to create beautiful designs. Practice, practice, practice! The more you draw with Adobe Illustrator the better you become at it.

Graphic design: Tools, types, and tips for success

Graphic design is the art of creating visual content that communicates messages or tells stories. It encompasses a wide variety of disciplines, including logo design, typography, layout, and colour theory.

There’s no shortage of tools available to graphic designers, but some are more essential than others. Here are a few tools every designer should have in their toolkit, along with some tips for using them effectively.

Adobe Photoshop is a powerful image-editing software that can be used for everything from simple photo retouching to complex image manipulation. Photoshop has a steep learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, there’s almost no limit to what you can create.

InDesign is a desktop publishing software that’s widely used in the print industry for laying out books, magazines, and newspapers.

Career opportunities in graphic design: Tips for breaking into the industry

There are many career opportunities in graphic design. Here are some tips for breaking into the industry:

Get a certificate in graphic design or a related field. This will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this competitive field. Start your own graphic design business. This will give you the opportunity to showcase your talent and creativity to potential clients. Network with other professionals in the field. This will help you get your foot in the door and learn about new opportunities.

Adobe Illustrator: Tricks and techniques

There are several ways to use the Blend Tool in Adobe Illustrator, each with its own effect. Here are some tips and techniques on how to use the Blend Tool for different purposes.

To create a smooth transition between two colours, select both colours with the colour Picker tool and then click on the ‘Create Gradient’ button. Next, choose the ‘Blend Options’ from the ‘Options’ menu and set the ‘Blend Steps’ to ‘Smooth colours’. Finally, click on the ‘OK’ button and drag the mouse across the two colours to blend them together.

To create a gradient mesh, first create a rectangle with the Rectangle Tool. With the rectangle selected, go to Object > Create Gradient Mesh.

Online learning: Graphic design and Adobe Illustrator

As someone who’s interested in graphic design, you may be wondering how you can use Adobe Illustrator to create interesting effects. One way to do this is by using the Blend tool. With the Blend tool, you can take two or more objects and blend them together to create a new shape.

To use the Blend tool, first select the objects that you want to blend together. Then click on the Blend tool in the toolbar and click on the first object. Next, click on the second object. A line will appear connecting the two objects. Finally, click on the third object (if you’re blending three objects together) and double-click on the Blend tool icon in the toolbar.

The result is a new shape that is a blend of the original shapes. You can adjust the settings for the blend by going to Object > Blending Options.

The different types of graphic design and what they’re used for

There are many different types of graphic design, each with its own purpose and use. Some common types include web design, logo design, print design, and advertising.

Web design is all about creating websites that are both visually appealing and user-friendly. A good web designer will take into consideration the needs of the client and the target audience when creating a website.

Logo design is one of the most important aspects of graphic design. A logo is often the first thing that people see when they come across a new company or product, so it’s important that it makes a good impression. A good logo should be simple and easy to remember.

Print design encompasses everything from business cards and flyers to brochures and magazines.

5 Tips for learning Adobe software

There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to learning Adobe software. However, there are a few tips that can help make the process easier.

Start with the basics. Before diving into complicated tutorials, take some time to learn the basic features and functions of the software. This will give you a better foundation on which to build more complex skills. Find a tutorial that suits your learning style. Everyone learns differently, so find a tutorial that fits your preferred method of learning. Whether it’s watching videos, reading step-by-step instructions, or following along with an interactive course, find a tutorial that works for you. Practice, practice, practice. The best way to learn any new skill is by practicing it as often as possible. Don t let the fear of making mistakes hold you back. If you re not sure about a feature or function, try it out. You can always undo your changes and try again. Join an online forum where others are learning to use Adobe Illustrator as well. This is a great way to get help and learn from others. Adobe Inspiration is one such forum that s geared toward beginners. Learn about Illustrator shortcuts, too. Shortcuts are keyboard shortcuts that allow you to do things like copy and paste more quickly. To learn them, check out Adobe s online listing of Illustrator shortcuts.

Make your graphic design career take off with Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator is widely used by graphic designers for creating vector art. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to use the Blend Tool to create a cool effect.

First, open Adobe Illustrator and create a new document. Then, draw two shapes that overlap each other using the Pencil Tool (P). With both shapes selected, go to Object > Blend > Make to create a blend between the two shapes. To change the number of steps in the blend, go to Object > Blend > Options and enter the desired number of steps. Finally, experiment with different colours to get the look you want!

Adobe Illustrator is a powerful design tool that can help take your graphic design career to new heights. With its wide array of features and capabilities, Illustrator can help you create stunning designs that will impress clients and stand out from the competition.

If you’re looking to get started with Adobe Illustrator, or simply want to brush up on your skills, use this tutorial on how to use the blend tool for some amazing effects. With this tool, you can create smooth gradients, add dimension to your designs, and really make your work pop.

So what are you waiting for? Start exploring Adobe Illustrator today and see what amazing things you can create!

5 Types of graphic design trends you can take advantage of today

There’s no doubt about it, graphic design is an ever-changing field. new technologies and design trends are constantly emerging, giving designers more tools to work with and more opportunities to be creative. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know which ones to take advantage of. Here are five graphic design trends you can take advantage of today:

Minimalism

With the popularity of flat design and material design, it’s no surprise that minimalism is one of the hottest trends in graphic design right now. By keeping your designs clean and simple, you can create a sophisticated look that is both modern and timeless.

Bold colours

After years of designers playing it safe with subdued colours, bold hues are making a big comeback in 2022. While they can be a bit tricky to get right, bold colours are a great way to create a powerful and memorable impression.

Geometric Shapes

The popularity of flat design has also paved the way for geometric shapes to become one of the most popular graphic design trends in 2022. From square logos to circular illustrations, geometric shapes are a simple way to add a unique touch to your designs.

Minimalist Portraits

Another way to stand out from the crowd is through stunning portraits of people or animals.

Hand Drawn Typography

Hand drawn typography is a great way to create a beautiful and personal design. While it can be time-consuming, hand drawn typography is an excellent way to add personality to your designs.

Join Blue Sky Graphics online design school today to learn more about graphic design!

How to use the Curvature tool in Illustrator like a pro?

Hey to all the creative people out there! In this article, we are going to know how one can draw icons or images using the Curvature tool without any hassle.

Well! Before we dive into the technical concept, I would like to share some brief information about the Curvature tool. In 2014, Adobe Illustrator came out with a new tool for users named as the "Curvature Tool". You can find the Curvature tool in the tool panel just below the single-column view of the pen tool.

The Curvature tool owns the power of simplifying path creation and makes it easy to draw and intuitive. By using this tool, you can easily create character animation, toggle, edit, add, or remove smooth or corner points. The best part about the tool is that you don't have to switch between different tools as it will help you to do the task quickly and more precisely.

Are you excited to learn more about Curvature tool usage in Adobe Illustrator? Continue reading…

Using Curvature tool in Illustrator

Let's begin….

Drawing with the Curvature tool

Pen Tool is a very important tool for the designer. With the help of Pen Tool, one can create the design as per their requirements. The Curvature tool is just like Pen tool; you can also create designs with the help of Curvature tool. In the Curvature tool, you don't need to remember the shortcut keys cmd, ctrl, Shift, Alt.

By using the Curvature tool, you create the initial anchor point. Also, it allows you to show the drawing when you click on the second anchor point.

In the image below, I will show you how to trace the shape. Note that I've created two anchor points along the path that I want to create while moving my mouse. Here you need to notice that the curve of the path is being determined on the basis of mouse location.

It is necessary to click to add anchor points along the path from time to time. The curvature tool allows you to control the path and allows you to create the connection between each anchor point.

For drawing the path, you can click on the previous anchor point and move them from a new location. Furthermore, to close the path, you can click on the anchor point of the curvature tool.

Create straight path segments

The Curvature tool also allows you to close the path using the curved line. It might not be the same as you want, but yes, you can generate a corner point using the Curvature tool.

By default, the trail of the Curvature tool will be closed with a curved line segment, which may not be what you would like. But you will create a corner point (used to make line segments) by double-clicking on the first anchor point.

For this, you just need to double-click on any anchor point that you simply create to toggle between a smooth point (curved line segment) and a corner point (straight line segment).

Make updates or modification

If you are using a curvature tool in Illustrator, then you can always make the modifications as per your requirements.

Yes, you can adjust the anchor points just by clicking and dragging the images to another place where you want to reposition.

Now, if you want to add an anchor point to the existing path, then you can click on the path for adding the anchor point at the particular location.

For deleting an anchor point, you can click on the specific point in the Curvature tool and then press the delete or backspace key.

Also, you can press the escape key for drawing an open path as it will help the Illustrator to understand that you are working on a specific object. Now, to deselect the object, click on the Cmd (Mac)/Ctrl (Win) key and then click anywhere on the screen.

Choose the Preferences

When it comes to using the Curvature tool, one most common task that you need to look for is preferences. Previewing the segment of the object that you want to create is one of the essential tasks for using the Curvature tool.

If you are a beginner and don't like the pen tool, then previewing the segment will help you use the Curvature tool easily. The preview, also known as Rubber Banding, can be disabled in the Illustrator preferences. Do you think about it?

Just open the dialog box named preferences by pressing Ctrl+K (Win) or Cmd+K (Mac). After which, you need to choose the Selection & Anchor Display category.

Now, redirect to the bottom of the dialog box. Here you will get a lot of options where you can enable or disable the Curvature tools and the Rubber band for the Pen. Here, make sure you go with the best option that suits your needs.

For more insight, you can refer to this video-

In a Crux

eople have been using pen tools for the last many years, but now many designers are looking for new ways to draw objects hassle-free in Illustrator. That's where the Curvature tool comes into the picture. Drawing technical elements in the Curvature tool is way easier than the Pen tool.

While using the Curvature tool, I feel like it allows me to think a lot more creatively and professionally. So, if you are a beginner, and want to see your animation character design to the next level, then you can use the Curvature tool to the fullest.

Still, if you have any concerns, and want any guidance from professionals, feel free to Contact Us.