Illustrator pencil tool for beginners

If you work with Adobe Illustrator, you will quickly come across the Pen-Tool. This tool has proven to be one of the most powerful and versatile tools, allowing you to create precise vector shapes. In this guide, we will show you how to use it effectively to create appealing designs.

Key insights

The Pen tool allows you to set anchor points and create precise lines and curves. Additionally, you will learn how to adjust and optimize existing paths. A combined use with the Direct Selection Tool makes the work more efficient. Furthermore, it explains how to remove unnecessary anchor points and how the Anchor Point Tool can be additionally utilized.

Step-by-step guide

You can find the Pen tool in the toolbar of Illustrator. With a simple click, you can get started, and the following steps will help you make the most of its functions.

Creating anchor points

To work with the Pen tool, simply select it from the toolbar. Click on the workspace to set the first anchor point. Move the mouse and click again to set a second point. You will see that Illustrator shows you a live preview of the path.

If you hold the mouse button down while setting the next anchor point, you can create a curve. After releasing the mouse button, so-called handles will appear, allowing you to further influence the shape of the curve.

Adjustments with the Direct Selection Tool

Once you have created the basic shape, you can flexibly adjust the anchor points and handles using the Direct Selection Tool. Simply click on an anchor point and drag it to refine the shape.

A useful trick: If you switch between the Direct Selection Tool and the Pen tool, you can make your work more efficient. Select the Direct Selection Tool first before using the Pen tool. Hold down the Control key (or Command key on the Mac) to switch immediately.

Continuing a path

If you have already created a path with the Pen tool and want to continue it, simply click on the last anchor point to extend the path. When you click again, you can either set a corner point or create a new curve by clicking and dragging.

To close the path, bring the Pen back to the first point. You will see a small icon shaped like a circle next to the Pen, indicating that your path is now closed.

Coloring your shapes

Now that you have created a closed shape, you can change the fill color or stroke color. Switch to the Selection Tool, click on your shape, and select the desired color from the top menu.

Practical application: Recreating a paper cup

Now proceed to conduct practical examples. Select the Direct Selection Tool, then the Pen tool. Approach the object by holding down the Alt key and then pressing the Command key to zoom in.

Set the first points along the template of your paper cup and start creating curves. Make decisions while placing the points to accurately recreate the shape. If you need to make adjustments, hold down the Command key to edit the handles.

Do not grant too many anchor points to keep the appearance of the shape clean. Remove unnecessary points by hovering over them with the Pen until a minus symbol appears. Then click to delete the point.

If you want to add or change points, simply hover over the path or the anchor point, and the plus symbol indicates that you can add or remove a point.

Using the Anchor Point Tool

The Anchor Point Tool allows you to edit anchor points separately. Hold down the Alt key while working with the Pen to enable a seamless tool switch.

With the Curvature tool, you can also automatically create curves by setting points. However, be aware that the automatic process does not always produce the best results. It is best to use the Pen tool to achieve precise results.

Summary – Pen Tool in Illustrator

With the Pen tool, you can create custom shapes and precise paths in Adobe Illustrator. You have learned how to set and edit anchor points, continue paths, and work with colors. By skillfully combining it with the Direct Selection Tool and the Anchor Point Tool, you gain maximum control and flexibility over your designs.