Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Using the Shape Builder Tool
The Shape Builder tool allows you to create complex objects by merging and erasing sim-
pler objects. The Shape Builder tool selects edges and regions of an object, which can be
merged or erased to form a new object. An edge is any section of a path that doesn't in-
tersect the path of other selected objects and a region is a closed area. You can also break
overlapping objects to create new ones. The style attributes of an object are adopted after
the merge. By default, the Shape Builder tool is in merge mode; however, you can switch
to erase mode by using the Alt (Win) or Option (Mac) key. Before you start using the
Shape Builder tool, you can set up and customize options, such as coloring source, high-
lighting, and gap detection, to suit your own preferences.
