Monday, March 17, 2008

Altering the pattern, but not the object in illustrator

Have you ever filled an object with a pattern but then wanted to change the size or angle or shape of the pattern without altering the object? Here's how to do it.

1. Select the object
2. Select the desired tool from the toolbox (scale tool, rotate tool, selection tool if you want to move the pattern)
3. Click and drag holding down the (`) accent grave key

Holding down the (`) and the shift keys makes sure your pattern is enlarged proportionately, or rotated at fixed angles. Using the section tool (black arrow) the pattern can be positioned where you want it within the object.

However be aware. If you have changed the attributes of the pattern the next object made will contain the altered pattern! The selected object will once again have to be filled with the original pattern

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