Cutting out an image outline in Adobe Illustrator is a common task that designers and artists need to perform when working on various projects. Whether it’s for a logo, an illustration, or a digital composition, mastering the art of cutting out an image outline in Illustrator is a valuable skill to have. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of cutting out an image outline in Adobe Illustrator, using the Pen Tool and Shape Builder Tool.
Step 1: Open the Image in Illustrator
The first step is to open the image you want to work with in Adobe Illustrator. You can either drag and drop the image into an existing Illustrator document or use the “File” > “Open” command to import the image.
Step 2: Select the Pen Tool
Once your image is open in Illustrator, select the Pen Tool from the toolbar on the left-hand side of the screen. The Pen Tool allows you to create precise and custom shapes for cutting out the image outline.
Step 3: Trace the Outline of the Image
With the Pen Tool selected, start tracing the outline of the image. Click and drag to create anchor points, and use the handles to adjust the curves as needed. Take your time to ensure that you are following the contours of the image accurately.
Step 4: Complete the Path
Once you have traced the entire outline of the image, complete the path by connecting the last anchor point to the first one. You should now have a closed path that outlines the shape of the image.
Step 5: Use the Shape Builder Tool
Select the Shape Builder Tool from the toolbar or press Shift+M to activate the tool. With the Shape Builder Tool, hover over the outlined shape, and you will see the areas where cutting can take place highlighted. Click and drag across the areas you want to cut out, and Illustrator will instantly remove those sections from the image.
Step 6: Refine the Outline
After cutting out the image outline, you may need to refine the edges and make adjustments to ensure that the cutout looks clean and precise. Use the Direct Selection Tool (A) to select and adjust individual anchor points, handles, and curves as needed.
Step 7: Save and Export
Once you are satisfied with the cutout image outline, save your Illustrator file and export the image in the desired format, such as PNG or JPEG, for use in your projects.
Tips for Cutting Out Image Outlines in Illustrator
– Use a high-resolution image to ensure a clean and detailed cutout.
– Take your time to accurately trace the outline of the image using the Pen Tool.
– Experiment with different cutting techniques, such as the Pathfinder tool, to find the method that works best for your specific image.
– Practice using the Shape Builder Tool to become more efficient at cutting out image outlines.
In conclusion, cutting out image outlines in Adobe Illustrator is a fundamental skill that can be applied to a wide range of design and creative projects. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this article, and practicing with different images, you can develop your proficiency in cutting out image outlines and create polished and professional-looking designs in Illustrator.
