How to Begin an Illustrator Drawing

By eHow Computers Editor

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You can use Adobe Illustrator to create vector drawings and text. Vector images consist of lines and curves that are defined by mathematical objects called vectors. These instructions apply to Adobe Illustrator 8. Procedures for other versions may vary.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

  • Adobe Illustrator

Step1
After setting up the work area the way you want it, create a file by choosing New from the File menu. The work area appears.
Step2
Click on the Window menu and select Show Tools.
Step3
Use the Pen Tool to create very precise curves and straight lines.
Step4
Choose the Star Tool to draw a star.
Step5
Select the Spiral Tool to draw a spiral.
Step6
Use the Rectangle or Ellipse Tool to draw a rectangle, ellipse, square or circle.
Step7
Choose the Polygon Tool (image of a six-sided object) to draw a polygon, triangle or diamond.
Step8
Use the Type Tool (image of a T) to create vector text.
Step9
Click the Selection Tool (black arrow pointing upward) to select an entire object or an entire path.
Step10
Use the Direct Selection Tool (white arrow pointing upward) to select individual anchor points on a path.
Step11
Select the Rotate Tool (circular arrow) to rotate an image by clicking on a selected anchor point.
Step12
Use the Pencil Tool to draw open and closed paths as if you were drawing on paper.
Step13
Choose the Twirl Tool (wavy lines spiralling out from center point) to twirl selected paths or points.
Step14
Select the Hand Tool to move the artwork.
Step15
Use the Eyedropper Tool to select a different color.
Step16
Click the Zoom Tool (magnifying glass) to enlarge or decrease the display.
Step17
Save when finished by choosing Save from the File menu.

Tips & Warnings

  • The Tools window displays only the active tools. To access inactive tools, click on an icon and then, holding down the Alt key (Windows) or the Option key (Mac), click on the icon. That is, if the pen tool is active, hold down the Alt or Option key, click on the pen, and you will activate another tool.
  • Adobe Illustrator's drawing tools work by creating lines (called paths) marked by anchors (or selection points).
  • You can import bitmapped images into Adobe Illustrator, but you cannot edit them from within the program.
  • Adobe Illustrator is a powerful program with many options. It is easy to become confused and use the wrong tool for the task you are trying to perform.

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eHow Article: How to Begin an Illustrator Drawing

eHow Computers Editor

eHow Computers Editor

Category: Computers

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