Illustrator Processes
FSHD 1318
Jessica McMahon
Using the Pen Tool:
Pen x : Place new point
Pen + : Add point on path
Pen / : Pick back up on the path (from the point)
Pen - : Subtract a point
Pen  : Close object
Guides:
1. Rulers are located under the View drop down menu.
2. Once the Rulers are set up, you can drag down from the top ruler or drag
from the side ruler to create your Guides.
Selection:
Black Arrow : Main selection tool. Selects an OBJECT. A bounding box will show up
when you click on the object you are selecting which will allow you to free
transform your object. Keep your finger on the Shift key as your transform from the
corner, for proportional transformation.
White Arrow : Direct selection tool. Direct selection allows you to select points and
lines. To select multiple points, press the Shift key while you click on the points you
want to add into your selection.
Drawing Curves:
1 Place new point.
2 Place second point but DO NOT take your finger off the mouse!!!
3 Keeping your finger ON the mouse, move the mouse in the opposite
direction of your curve to form your curve. DO NOT take your finger off
of the mouse yet!!!
4 Press Option and drag your lower handle back into the point or leave a
small tail pointing in the direction of your next point.
5 Take your finger off of the key first and then the mouse.
Reflection:
1 Select object using the main selection tool (black arrow).
2 Choose the Reflect tool from your toolbar (in the same box as your
Rotate tool).
3 Place the point of reflection on the center line (click once on the center
line with your mouse).
4 Press Shift + Option at the SAME TIME (keep your fingers on these keys
until the last step). Your cursor will turn into a double arrow.
5 Click on your selection and drag over the center line (the object will
duplicate). This should only be a SMALL motion with your mouse.
6 Take your finger off of the mouse first and then the keys.
Joining:
1 Select one of the two points you are joining, using your Direct Selection
Tool (white arrow).
2 Press Shift and directly select the second point.
3 Go to the Object drop down menu.
4 Click on Path.
5 Click on Average.
6 Click on Both.
7 Join the two points : Command + J