Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
MCGARRY
Masking Images
Simple to Complex Clipping Masks
Advanced Technique
Overview:
Create a clipping mask; gather and order objects to clip; use the mask to clip ob-
jects; position masked objects; add finishing touches.
This custom surfboard design made of masks within masks was created by San
Diego-based illustrator Aaron McGarry, who finds much of his work inspired by a life
tailored to the beach communities and industries of southern California.
1 Inserting wood texture with a clipping mask.
In a new document McGarry double-
clicked the layer name to customize it. He used the Pen tool to draw the outline of a
surfboard, which he would use as a clipping path for his new surfboard design. To
add the wood texture for the board, McGarry used File> Place to place a JPG image
of balsa wood into his document (making certain that the Template option was dis-
abled). With his image selected, he used Object> Arrange> Send to Back to move the
image to the back of the stacking order, making his surfboard outline the top-most
object. Adjusting the alignment of the path and the wood, he then selected both ob-
jects and chose Object> Clipping Mask> Make ( -7/Ctrl-7); this clipped the image
into the path and thereby created the wooden surfboard.
