Adobe Illustrator pen tool

[rtroxel]

During the past few days, I've been trying to teach myself how to use the Adobe Illustrator pen tool. I had been warned that this is an instrument of torture, but, in the end, is well worth learning, since it puts you miles ahead of your competition.

I'd like to hear any stories from people who have "mastered" the pen.

[bumfluff]

I've always used it as a starting point for any shape that isn't regular. Its an easy way to get the outline you want, but you really need to clean up the lines afterwards by deleting unnecessary points.

I don't think its that difficult, to tell the truth. The point editing can be a little fiddly if you have a lot of points close together, but you just zoom in closer if things get muddled.

Best bet is just to play with it until you get a feel of what you can do. If you have specific problems, ask here. I don't think theres any real secrets to using it

[rtroxel]

I don't think theres any real secrets to using it

Well, that's good to know. I'll keep fiddling then.

[Eagle]

Try CorelDRAW's vector tools sometime. Its node editing tools are legendary.

[Alan]

Works more naturaly with a drawing tablet like a wacom.
No real secrets, just a practised hand.