Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
the Illustrator Options dialog box, leave the default settings, and then click OK.
Exploring the Pen tool
The Pen tool ( ) is one of the main drawing tools that is used to create both freeform and
more precise artwork. It also plays a role in editing existing vector artwork. It's important to
have an understanding of it when working with Illustrator.
In this first section, you will begin to explore the Pen tool and, later in the lesson, you will
create artwork using the Pen tool and other tools and commands. Next, you'll get ready to
begin drawing.
Note
If you don't see “Reset Essentials” in the menu, choose Window >
Workspace > Essentials before choosing Window > Workspace > Reset
Essentials.
1.
Choose 1 from the Artboard Navigation menu in the lower-left corner of the Document
window. Choose View > Fit Artboard In Window.
2.
Choose Window > Workspace > Reset Essentials.
3.
Choose View > Smart Guides to deselect the Smart Guides. Smart Guides can be
useful when you draw, but you won't need them now.
4.
In the Control panel, click Fill color and choose None ( ). Then, click the Stroke
color and make sure that the black swatch is selected.
5.
Make sure the Stroke weight is 1 pt in the Control panel.
When you begin drawing with the Pen tool, it's usually best to have no fill on the path you
create. You can add a fill later, if necessary. Next, you'll draw a path in the work area of the
artboard that looks like the zigzag path at the top of the artboard.
6.
Select the Pen tool ( ) in the Tools panel. Position the pointer in the artboard area,
and notice the asterisk next to the Pen icon ( ), indicating that you are starting a path.
Note
If you see a crosshair ( ) instead of the Pen icon ( ), the Caps Lock key is
active. Caps Lock turns tool icons into crosshairs for increased precision.
7.
In the area labeled Work Area, click where the blue “start” square is, to set the first
anchor point. Move the pointer to the right of the original point.
The asterisk has disappeared, indicating that you are drawing a path.
8.
Position the pointer down and to the right of the original point, and click to create the
