If you use Adobe Illustrator, you almost certainly used the Pen tool when creating the path. This comprehensive Pen Tool Illustrator guide is designed to introduce or remind you of the features, shortcuts, and ways to use arguably Adobe's most important tool.
In this Illustrator Pen Tool tutorial, you'll become proficient at using all of its features, from learning how to add anchor points in Illustrator to working with Bezier curves.
What you will learn in this Adobe Illustrator tutorial
- How to use the Pen tool in Illustrator
- How to move anchor points to create paths in Illustrator
- How to Use Different Shortcuts to Improve and Speed Up Your Workflow
- How to adjust preferences to your liking
- What are the best practices and recommendations for using the Pen Tool
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1.How to use the Pen tool function
Pen Tool (P)
Click on the artboard to create a path with straight segments. Click and drag to create a pathbezier curve.
Add Anchor Point Illustrator Tool (+)
Click on a path segment to add an anchor point.
Delete Anchor Point Tool (-)
Click an anchor point to remove it from the path.
Convert Anchor Point (Shift-C)
Click on an anchor point and drag to create bezier handles where there are none. Click an anchor point with a handle to remove it.
Alternatively, click and drag halfway along the path to manipulate it as a curve.
Scissor Tool (C)
Not part of the pen tool group, but definitely related to it. Click on a path segment to split it into two paths.
Move Anchor Point Illustrator Tool (Direct Selection Tool)
Another useful tool is the Direct Selection Tool (A). This will allow you to select an anchor point and move it to adjust your path the way you want.
2.How to use keyboard shortcuts
- choosePen Tool (P)
- chooseAdd Anchor Point Tool (+)
- chooseDelete Anchor Point Tool (-)
- chooseConvert Anchor Point Tool (Shift-C)
- chooseScissor Tool (C)
- join two anchors(Command/Control-J)
3.What are the different cursors?
The Pen Tool takes different forms depending on what you're doing with it. Each cursor intuitively makes you aware of what you are about to do.
(Caps Lock toggles between pointer and crosshair)
4.What are secondary mouse controls (selection paths)?
- Pen tool hovering over anchor point: changed to delete anchor point tool
- Pen tool hovering over path segments: Change Add Anchor Point Tool
- Pen Tool hovering over End Anchor: Changes to Continue Anchor Tool
5.How to use keyboard controls
- catchtransferLimit movement to 45°, 90°, 135°, or 180° when creating or editing anchor points and Adobe Illustrator handles.
- choose an anchorDirect Selection Tool (A)then clickdeleteThe .anchor and adjacent path segments will be deleted, leaving two paths.
- Pen Tool Options(Alt): Changes to the Convert Anchor Point tool.
- pen toolHover over the Bezier handle +Order(control): Allows editing Bezier curves.
- Pen Tool Options(Alt) while creating a Bezier curve: Split the curve (unlock the handles).
- pen toolHover over the Bezier handle +options(Alt): Splits the curve (unlocks the handles).
- Scissor Tool (C)-options(Alt): Change to Add Anchor Point Tool.
- Add anchor point tool options(Alt): Changes to the Delete Anchor Point tool.
- Delete Anchor Point Tool Options(Alt): Change to Add Anchor Point Tool.
6.How to set different preferences
You can access preferences that affect the Pen Tool (P) and other related tools byIllustrator > Preferences > Selection and Anchor Point Display.
tolerant
The radius of the selection area around the anchor point. Must be between 1 and 8 pixels: 1px if your mouse is very accurate or have many anchors very close to each other, 8px if you prefer lower precision. 3px is the default.
Select objects by path only
When selected, this option only allows objects to be selected by clicking on their path. Clicking on their filled areas has no effect, compared to working in outline mode (View > Outline).
alignment point
can also be checked byView > Snap to Point, though bySelection and Anchor DisplayDialog tolerance can also be determined from 1 to 8 pixels. This value again represents the radius around the anchor point. When arranging two objects, the anchor point of one object snaps to the point of the other object if one object is within the specified range.
It's worth noting that since the release of Adobe Illustrator CC 2014, Bezier handles are not affected by grid snapping. Thus, you can ensure that all anchor points stick to the mesh (great for web use), while maintaining the precision of freeform curves.
Anchor and handle display
Determines how path anchors and handles are displayed.
Highlight anchor points on mouseover
When checked, anchor points are highlighted when the cursor hovers over them.
Show handles when multiple anchor points are selected
When selected, this option displays Adobe Illustrator handles for points when multiple points are selected. Otherwise, the handles for the multiple selected points arenoshow.
hide corner widget
The corner widget allows you to drag corners to make them round. You may find it helpful to specify the corners at which you no longer want the widget to be displayed. Choose from 105°, 120°, 135°, 150° or 165°.
enable rubber band
When I want to drop an anchor, I always find it helpful to know what the path looks like. examinerubber bandoption lets you preview the path before committing.
7.What are other shortcuts and tricks?
chooseDirect Selection Tool (A)Before selecting the Pen Tool (P).hold command (control)Allows you to access the last selected tool (in this case, the Direct Selection tool) to edit paths and handles without deselecting the path.
After selecting the path, use thespace bargive you access toHand Tools (H).Move screens without deselecting paths or changing tools.
When creating or editing an anchor point, clickClick and hold the space barChange the position of the anchor you are working on. Since the release of Adobe Illustrator CC 2014, this operation can also be performed on the closed anchor point of the path.
along withDirect Selection Tool (A), to select the end point and start point of the path.command (control) -Jjoin in.
along withDirect Selection Tool (A), to select the end point and start point of the path.Command（Control）-Option（Alt）-Shift-JJoin and average at the same time.
Remember that the color of highlighted paths and their bezier handles depends on the color of the layer they are on.
To smooth paths by reducing the number of anchor points, turn onsimplifydialogue(Object > Path > Simplify) and adjust to your needs.
Conversely, if you want more anchors to improve operations, go toObjects > Path > Add Anchor Point.A new anchor point will appear after each existing anchor point on the selected path.
to preventPen Tool (P)To change its behavior when interacting with other anchor points or paths, open the General Preferences dialog (Illustrator > Preferences > General) and checkDisable automatic add/removeoption. The pen tool will only draw paths now.
Control over Bezier handles has been improved since the release of Adobe Illustrator CC 2014. Now, while dragging the handle of the anchor point, hold down thecommand/controlIndependently stretches and retracts the leading handle while maintaining itsmovePair with trailing handle.
8.How to use best practice advice
When starting to bend the path, drag the handle from the first anchor point.
Drag the handle a third of the way up the curve you're creating to get a smooth path.
Position the anchor point on the curve where the path starts to change direction, not in the middle of the curve.
Use less anchor points: Fewer points = cleaner paths.
9.How to Use the Pen Tool: Exercises
This is all well and good in theory, but while you have these tips fresh in your memory, why not put them into practice? downloadPen tool practicefile and follow the guide to create the exact path, using the tips and shortcuts described in this article.
Here, you can use what you've learned in the Illustrator Pen Tool Guide!
If you need some inspiration for your designs, check outpopular carrierOn the Envato marketplace. If you're struggling with creating specific vectors with the pen tool, you'll probably find something there that you can use in your projects.
Learn about more tools in Adobe Illustrator!
If you enjoyed this and want to further improve your skills in Adobe Illustrator, check out the tutorial below! Expand your expertise by reading these in-depth guides. Happy designing!
- How to Use Outline Strokes in IllustratorDiana TomaMarch 20, 2021
- How to Install and Use Brushes in Adobe IllustratorMarie Winkler February 8, 2021
- Illustrator in 60 Seconds: How to Use Compound ShapesAndrei StefanJune 11, 2018
- Illustrator in 60 Seconds: How to Use the Selection ToolAndrei Stefan June 6, 2016
- Illustrator in 60 Seconds: How to Use the Snap to Grid Option Andrei StefanMay 18, 2016
FAQs
What does the pen tool do in Illustrator? ›
It allows you to create shapes with freeform curves. Found in the Toolbar, the Pen Tool is probably the most powerful drawing tool you can find in Adobe Illustrator. If you need to replicate any curves, you can do so with the Pen Tool. You can also use it to create and edit anchor points and paths.
Is the pen tool the most basic tool in Illustrator? ›The pen tool is probably the most important tool of the entire program. This Illustrator tool allows you to click in your workspace to create anchor points. By clicking and dragging these anchor points, you can maneuver their “handles”, which give your paths curvature and shape.
What is the purpose of the Pen tool? ›The pen tool is a path creator. You can create smooth paths that you can stroke with a brush or turn to a selection. This tool is effective for designing, selecting smooth surfaces, or layout. The paths can also be used in Adobe illustrator when the document is edited in Adobe illustrator.
What are the main features of Pen tool? ›The Pen Tool in Photoshop creates paths and shapes which can be duplicated and manipulated to create complex selections, masks and objects. Unlike the Brush Tool and Pencil Tools, which “draw” pixels onto your image, the Pen Tool always creates a vector path when used.
What are the keys for Pen tool in Adobe Illustrator? ›- The shortcut for Pen Tool is 'P'. ...
- Hold down the Shift key to constrain the Pen Tool to multiples of 45°.
- Press Command/Ctrl while dragging the handles of a smooth point, to make them unequal in length when drawing the curve.
- Break the handle pairing by Alt-drag (Windows) or Option-drag (macOS) handles.
To create straight lines with the Pen tool, click and release to create an anchor point. Move the pointer, click and release to create another anchor point. Continue clicking and releasing in different areas to create more points. To draw a curve, drag to make a point rather than click.
What are the steps to use the Pen tool? ›- Select it: Select the Pen tool.
- Anchor it: Click on where you want your line to begin to place your first anchor point.
- Connect it: Click where you want your line to end to place a second anchor point.
Understanding and mastering the Pen Tool takes time, patience and a lot of practice and it can make the difference between a professional designer and a beginner. It is the first choice tool a designer will first use in creating original logos, icons, typography, characters and any other type of original vector art.
What is the difference between Pen and pencil tool in Illustrator? ›In reality, the Pencil tool is the exact opposite of the Pen tool. With the Pen tool, you define the anchor points, and Illustrator completes the paths. With the Pencil tool, you draw the path, and Illustrator creates the anchor points for you.
What are the advantages of pen tool? ›Pen tool helps to make or create interesting and precise lines and designs creating shapes and selections, or smoothing paths. While the Pen tool isn't the fastest, it's the most effective tool. So, this proper way to cut out any object using a pen tool.
What makes the pen tool a powerful tool? ›
The Pen tool is the most powerful tool in Illustrator. It allows you to define your own anchor points, as well as adjust the curve associated with those anchors, simply by manipulating two control points associated with each anchor.
How do you smooth pen tool lines in Illustrator? ›- Select the path using the Selection tool.
- Select the Smooth tool.
- Drag over the path multiple times to smooth the edges and curves.
- Double-click the Smooth tool to open the Smooth Tool Options dialog box.
You can select the Pen Tool by hitting the P key.
How do you select an object after using the Pen tool? ›As well as being a proficient drawing instrument, the Pen is a useful selection tool. You can select shapes to brush into. cmd/Ctrl+click a path to select it once you've made a shape, or Ctrl/right-click a path and pick Make Selection.
Do professionals use Adobe Illustrator? ›Adobe Illustrator is often considered the gold standard of software programs in a variety of creative professions. It enables users to create detailed and scalable graphics that serve all kinds of purposes.
Why use Pen instead of pencil? ›Advantages of pens:
The writing is clear and bright. Ink is durable and adheres well to paper, so it's unlikely to wear off. A pen is always ready to write and requires no sharpening. The tip of the pen is unformed, so unlike the pencil, it consistently creates even lines.
The pencil and paintbrush are similar tools. The main difference between the two tools is that although both use the same type of brush, the pencil tool will not produce fuzzy edges, even with a very fuzzy brush. It does not even do anti-aliasing.
What is Pen tool for drawing shapes? ›The Pen tool allows you to draw smooth-edged paths with anchor points and handles. Select the Pen tool (P) . Use the Options bar to customize tool settings, like Drawing Mode and Auto Add/Delete anchor points, to get the effect you want. Draw a path with anchor points and handles.
What drawing Pen for beginners? ›Fineliner pens feature very fine nibs, ideal for adding small details to your drawings. They are the most straightforward pen for beginners to draw with, as they have a fixed nib width.
Can we trace a logo using Pen tool? ›You can take a picture or scan your hand drawing and open it in Adobe Illustrator. Use the Pen Tool or other drawing tools to trace the outline and then color the drawing if needed.
What is the difference between Pen and pencil in Illustrator? ›
The pencil tool is used for drawing freeform line segments. Unlike the pen tool that uses plotted anchor points on a line, you can use your mouse or digital drawing tablet to draw any shape you would like. This is great for designers who want to jump right in and create artwork from scratch.
What is the difference between the Pen tool and the pencil tool in Illustrator? ›In reality, the Pencil tool is the exact opposite of the Pen tool. With the Pen tool, you define the anchor points, and Illustrator completes the paths. With the Pencil tool, you draw the path, and Illustrator creates the anchor points for you.
What is the difference between brush and pencil tool in Illustrator? ›The Pencil tool is used to draw free hand lines with a hard edge. The pencil and paintbrush are similar tools. The main difference between the two tools is that although both use the same type of brush, the pencil tool will not produce fuzzy edges, even with a very fuzzy brush. It does not even do anti-aliasing.
Why use pen instead of pencil? ›Advantages of pens:
The writing is clear and bright. Ink is durable and adheres well to paper, so it's unlikely to wear off. A pen is always ready to write and requires no sharpening. The tip of the pen is unformed, so unlike the pencil, it consistently creates even lines.
However, pens typically offer a smoother feel while writing (depending on the pen type) and are more likely to stand the test of time. Pencils, on the other hand, allow for editing and erasing, and when used with a setting spray, can potentially last as long on the page as some pen ink.
How do I make the Pen tool smooth in Illustrator? ›- Select the path using the Selection tool.
- Select the Smooth tool.
- Drag over the path multiple times to smooth the edges and curves.
- Double-click the Smooth tool to open the Smooth Tool Options dialog box.
The most powerful drawing tool found in Illustrator is the Pen tool. With the Pen tool, you can create and precisely edit anchor points to make paths.
How do you draw different shapes with pen tool? ›- Select the Pen tool (P) .
- Use the Options bar to customize tool settings, like Drawing Mode and Auto Add/Delete anchor points, to get the effect you want.
- Draw a path with anchor points and handles.
- Finish drawing the path by closing it or leaving it open.
Illustrator comes with five different types of brushes (calligraphic, scatter, art, bristle, and pattern) that reflect the breadth and depth of the results that brushes can achieve.
Does the pencil tool work exactly same as the brush tool? ›Answer. Answer: The only difference between the Pencil and Brush tools is that the Pencil tool paints with an anti-aliased or smooth edge, and the Brush tool draws with an aliased or rough edge.