How to Use The Perspective Tool in Adobe Illustrator

Strong graphic design skills include being able to craft images to reflect buildings and other 3 dimensional objects. Creating dimensional objects requires accurate alignment of image components on paper, or through software programs such as Adobe Illustrator. In Illustrator, the perspective tool can be used to create a grid that helps align image segments for a realistic and accurate perspective. Learn how to use the perspective tool in Adobe Illustrator through this graphic design tutorial.

How to Use The Perspective Tool in Adobe Illustrator Video

Discover the process of using the perspective tool in Adobe Illustrator from award-winning graphic artist Janee Meadows from Los Angeles. She presents a step-by-step guide to opening and using the perspective grid tool. This graphic design tutorial is offered as part of a series of Adobe Illustrator tips on the Mahalo.com YouTube channel.

Step 1: Open Perspective Tool

Press the perspective tool icon which is the ninth button from the top on the tool palate. If you prefer to use quick keys, you can also open the perspective grid tool by pressing and holding the "Shift" key, then the "P" key. A 3D grid will appear and a circular button will appear over the tool palate.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXsktiCG4Ls

Step 2: Place Images on Grid

Create the sides of your 3D object. Press the button above the tool bar to highlight the side where you want to place a wall. The side of the 3D cube will highlight and the cube image inside the circle button will also indicate the active side of your 3-dimensional cube. Press the perspective tool button, then drag your object onto the position of the cube where you want the image to reside. The image will "snap" to the grid. Make adjustments to the object size as needed. Continue selecting a cube side and dragging images onto the 3D grid.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXsktiCG4Ls

Step 3: Adjust the Pieces of Your Image

Adjust the size and dimensions of all your individual pieces to enhance the lines of your image and enhance the 3D effect. Click on each individual piece and drag the line sides to change the shape and placement of objects. For some items, you may need to adjust the direction of the shape by dragging corners of an object to a new angle. Once completed, remove the grid by clicking on the "View" menu, selecting the "Perspective Grid" and choosing "Hide Grid" from the pop-out window.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXsktiCG4Ls