When ever we would install a new version of Illustrator, we would quickly turn off the Smart Guides. They always seemed confusing, but after working with Illustrator for a while, we have become reliant on Illustrator’s Smart Guides. If you don’t use Smart Guides, you should! It will help you create cleaner files, speed up productivity, and be more precise when creating artwork in Illustrator.
Smart guides are hands down one of Illustrator's most powerful and useful features. If you have ever tried to place objects next to each other in Illustrator without smart guides you probably know how difficult it is to get them to line up just right. Today's video tutorial will explain Illustrator's smart guide functionality and then put it to use using some simple shapes and lines.
You've probably used the Pathfinder panel to combine shapes and make new ones. But do you often find yourself clicking (and undoing) each icon in the panel until you get the look you want? Wouldn't it be easier to take some time and learn exactly what each function does? Here's a look at the über-useful Pathfinder panel. The Pathfinder Effects, which are found under the Effects menu, are covered in video format in this tutorial.
Using Rulers and Guides in Illustrator allows you to be mathematically precise in your work. Here’s the low-down on these measuring tools, including a few handy tricks and shortcuts.