What are some tips and tricks to combine simple shapes with the Shape Builder tool in AI?

2 Combine and merge

One of the most common uses of the Shape Builder tool is to combine and merge multiple shapes into one. To do this, simply drag your cursor over the shapes that you want to join, and they will be filled with the same color and merged into a single shape. You can also hold down the Alt or Option key to remove the strokes of the shapes, and create a smooth outline. This is handy for creating organic shapes, such as flowers, animals, or characters.

3 Subtract and delete

Another useful function of the Shape Builder tool is to subtract and delete parts of shapes that you don't need. To do this, hold down the Alt or Option key, and drag your cursor over the areas that you want to remove. They will be marked with a red diagonal line, and deleted when you release the mouse button. You can use this technique to create holes, cutouts, or negative spaces in your shapes, and add more interest and depth to your illustration.

4 Intersect and isolate

The Shape Builder tool can also help you create new shapes from the intersection of existing ones. To do this, hold down the Shift key, and drag your cursor over the overlapping areas of the shapes that you want to intersect. They will be highlighted with a gray color, and isolated as a new shape when you release the mouse button. You can then change the color, size, or position of the new shape as you wish. This is useful for creating geometric patterns, icons, or logos.

5 Modify and adjust

The Shape Builder tool is not only for creating shapes, but also for modifying and adjusting them. You can use the tool to reshape, resize, or rotate your shapes by dragging the handles that appear around them. You can also use the arrow keys to nudge your shapes by small increments, or hold down the Shift key to move them by larger ones. You can also use the Direct Selection tool (A) or the Lasso tool (Q) to select and modify individual anchor points or segments of your shapes, and fine-tune your illustration.

6 Experiment and explore

The Shape Builder tool is a fun and creative tool that allows you to experiment and explore different possibilities with shapes. You can try different combinations, subtractions, intersections, and modifications, and see what results you get. You can also use the Undo (Ctrl+Z or Command+Z) or the Revert (F12) commands to go back to your previous steps, and try something else. The Shape Builder tool is a great way to unleash your imagination and create unique and original vector illustrations.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?