Class Info

  • Date: Wednesday, September 16
  • Meeting Info: Online

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 to 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
  • Join Tool – joining paths
  • Using the Scissor Tool – Splitting a  path
  • Creating Dashed Lines
  • Use of Arrowheads

Critique

Each week we will review homework assignments from the previous class. Students will participate in reviewing material and offering suggestions for improvement for their cohort. This week we discuss the creation of shapes, choosing color and alignment and composition. The class will discuss the Stacking Order and creating a pencil illustration using several shapes.

Lab

Lab assignments are done during class time. Practice creating straight lines, and Bezier curves in four files provided. In each work area provided create at least four examples of using the pen without the template. Templates will be emailed in .ai format. Open 04Pen_Lab.pdf for directions.

04Pen_LabDownload

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 5:00 pm the day before class.

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

  • Use the 04PenTemplate and trace over the template on drawing layer to practice using the pen tool.
  • In 04Pear.ai template, draw a pear following the template. This will be demonstrated in class. Save it in the correct naming convention and email it for your folder.

Vocabulary

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

Resources

Here are some notes that you should read to educate yourself in the topic area described above.

04PencilDownload

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xxzksd45OuE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1DU-D7bhdw