Class Info

  • Date: February 21, 2024
  • Meeting Info: 6:00pm – 9:20pm, P-121

Topic

Using the Pen Tools

Today, we will begin our exploration of the pen tools that Illustrator has to offer.

Pen Tools

Objectives

What you can expect to learn

  • Use the Pen Tool to create complex shapes
  • Create paths and shapes with the Pen Tool
    • straight lines, curved lines (bezier curves) 
  • Add, remove anchor points with the Pen Tool 
  • Explore the Curvature Tool
  • Converting Smooth Points to Corner Points
  • Creating Dashed Lines
  • Use of Arrowheads

Review from previous class

  • Join Tool – joining paths
  • Using the Scissor Tool – Splitting a  path

Lab

Lab assignments are done during class time. Practice creating straight lines, and Bezier curves using the practice templates. When you are finished with the practice templates:

  • Name the practice file: 04_LastNameFirst Initial_pentool
  • Add it to the folder in Google Drive

Discussion

Each week you will need to respond to two questions posted. This is a requirement for participation part of your grade.

Homework Due Next Class 

All work should be submitted by 11:30pm the day before class.

Each file should be saved according to the following naming convention. i.e., 04_LastName_Swan.ai (Illustrator).

  • Use the Swan Template and trace over the template on drawing layer to practice using the pen tool.
  • Add color as necessary.
  • Hide the template layer.
  • Once you’re finished, add this file to the proper homework folder in Google Drive.

Vocabulary

  • Curvature Tool
  • Straight Lines
  • Bezier Curves
  • Adding and Removing Anchor Points
  • Anchor Point Tool (Converting Smooth to Corner Anchors)

Resources

A few videos to help you along.

How to Make Custom Guides

How to Create Accurate Ruler Guides and Set Margins