How to Measure a Vector in Illustrator

Computer software now makes working with vector images easy..

A vector graphic is a common file format that groups lines and nodes together mathematically so the image can be re-sized without losing any quality. Vector is a supported format in most graphics software platforms such as Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, GIMP and Inkscape and a number of tools have been developed over time to make working with vector graphics simpler. In Adobe Illustrator, vector images can be measured via the "Measure" tool located on the software toolbar.

Things You'll Need

• Adobe Illustrator

Instructions

1. Open Adobe Illustrator.

2. Click on "File" followed by "Open" from the main menu. Navigate to the saved vector graphic on your computer, highlight it with your mouse and click "Open."

3. Click on the "Measure" tool represented by a small ruler in the main horizontal toolbar of the software.

4. Click on a point at one end of the vector image. Click on a second point at the opposite end of the vector image. The distance between these two points will be calculated to determine the size of your vector.

5. Click on the first point you created at one end of your vector. Drag your mouse in a straight line and drop it on the second point you created at the opposite end of your vector. The "Info" pane will now display both horizontal and vertical distances and the angle measured on your vector.

References

• Tech FAQ: Vector Images
• Adobe: Illustrator: Support: Measure the Distance Between Objects