Cutting out an image using Adobe Illustrator (AI) can be a simple and efficient way to remove the background from an image and make it more versatile for various design projects. Whether you’re working on a graphic design, illustration, or any other creative project, knowing how to cut out an image in AI can be a valuable skill. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of cutting out an image in Adobe Illustrator.
Step 1: Open Adobe Illustrator and Import the Image
First, open Adobe Illustrator and create a new document or open an existing one. Then, go to the “File” menu and select “Place” to import the image you want to cut out onto the artboard. Choose the image file from your computer and click “Place” to insert it into the document.
Step 2: Select the Image
Once the image is placed on the artboard, select it by clicking on it with the Selection Tool (V) in the Illustrator toolbox. This will allow you to manipulate and edit the image.
Step 3: Create a Clipping Mask
To cut out the image, you can use the clipping mask feature in Illustrator. First, create a shape that will serve as the mask. This shape will define the area of the image that you want to keep. Use the Shape Tools in the toolbox to create a shape over the area of the image you want to retain. For example, if you want to keep a person’s face, create a shape that covers the face.
Step 4: Position the Shape
Position and resize the shape as needed to cover the area you want to keep in the image. You can also use the alignment and distribution tools in Illustrator to ensure that the shape is precisely positioned.
Step 5: Arrange the Layers
Next, arrange the layers so that the shape you created is on top of the image. This can be done by using the “Arrange” option in the “Object” menu. Select the shape and then go to “Object” > “Arrange” > “Bring to Front” or “Send to Back” to adjust the layer order.
Step 6: Create a Clipping Mask
With the shape selected, click on “Object” in the menu and then select “Clipping Mask” > “Make” or use the shortcut Cmd+7 (Mac) or Ctrl+7 (Windows) to create a clipping mask. This will cut out the image based on the shape you created, preserving only the area within the shape.
Step 7: Refine the Mask (Optional)
After creating the clipping mask, you can adjust and refine the mask as needed. You can move, resize, or even modify the shape by using the Direct Selection Tool (A) or the Pen Tool (P) to achieve the desired result.
Step 8: Release the Clipping Mask (Optional)
If you need to make further adjustments to the image or remove the mask altogether, you can release the clipping mask. To do this, select the masked image and go to “Object” > “Clipping Mask” > “Release” in the Illustrator menu.
Step 9: Save the Image
Once you’re satisfied with the results, save the cut-out image in a suitable format such as .png or .jpeg by going to “File” > “Save As” and choosing the file type and location.
In conclusion, cutting out an image in Adobe Illustrator is a straightforward process that can be useful for a variety of design projects. By following these steps, you can effectively remove the background from an image and create a clean, versatile asset for your designs. Whether you’re a graphic designer, illustrator, or any other creative professional, mastering the art of cutting out images in AI can enhance your design capabilities and open up new possibilities for your projects.
