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How to use the shape builder tool in Adobe Illustrator

Monica I. Heredia Rodriguez
In this project you will learn how to use the shape builder tool in Adobe Illustrator. The Shape Builder tool allows you to create complex objects by merging and erasing simpler objects. This tool elevates your value as a graphic designer and being able to...
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In this project you will learn how to use the shape builder tool in Adobe Illustrator. The Shape Builder tool allows you to create complex objects by merging and erasing simpler objects. This tool elevates your value as a graphic designer and being able to use it and understand how it's used it's awesome. Many tools are ignored in Adobe Illustrator and what makes you shine and be the graphic designer your client needs it's to be able to use any tool to make your job even better. In this guided project you'll learn how to use the shape builder tool and you'll apply designs in every scenario. The shape builder tool lets you merge multiple simple shapes together to create very intriguing and complex designs. I hope you are excited to learn more about Adobe Illustrator and let's go ahead and start.
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Taught by educators experienced in graphic design industry
Focuses on the real-world application of Adobe Illustrator's shape builder tool
Meant for beginners and intermediate-level learners who want to enhance their graphic design skills
May require access to Adobe Illustrator software, which may not be accessible to all learners

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How to use the shape builder tool in Adobe Illustrator with these activities:
Join a study group or online forum dedicated to Adobe Illustrator.
This will help you connect with other Adobe Illustrator users and learn from their experiences and insights.
Browse courses on Adobe Illustrator
Show steps
  • Find a study group or online forum dedicated to Adobe Illustrator.
  • Join the study group or online forum.
  • Participate in discussions and ask questions.
Follow a tutorial on how to use the Shape Builder Tool to create complex designs.
This will help you learn how to use the Shape Builder Tool to create more complex and intricate designs.
Browse courses on Shape Builder Tool
Show steps
  • Find a tutorial on how to use the Shape Builder Tool to create complex designs.
  • Follow the steps in the tutorial to create your own designs.
Create a series of shapes using the Shape Builder Tool.
This will help you practice using the Shape Builder Tool and become more proficient in creating complex shapes.
Browse courses on Shape Builder Tool
Show steps
  • Choose a simple shape to start with, such as a circle or square.
  • Use the Shape Builder Tool to create more complex shapes by adding or subtracting shapes.
  • Experiment with different combinations of shapes to create unique designs.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Attend a workshop or conference on Adobe Illustrator.
This will help you learn more about Adobe Illustrator and the Shape Builder Tool from experts and other users.
Browse courses on Adobe Illustrator
Show steps
  • Find a workshop or conference on Adobe Illustrator.
  • Attend the workshop or conference.
  • Network with other Adobe Illustrator users and learn from their experiences.
Review the Basics of Adobe Illustrator
Reviewing the basics of Adobe Illustrator will help you understand and use the Shape Builder Tool more effectively.
Browse courses on Shape Builder Tool
Show steps
  • Watch a tutorial on the Shape Builder Tool.
  • Practice using the Shape Builder Tool to create simple shapes.
Design a logo or icon using the Shape Builder Tool.
This will help you apply your skills in using the Shape Builder Tool to create a practical and visually appealing design.
Browse courses on Shape Builder Tool
Show steps
  • Brainstorm ideas for a logo or icon that you would like to design.
  • Sketch out your design on paper.
  • Use the Shape Builder Tool to create your design in Adobe Illustrator.
  • Refine your design and add any finishing touches.
Enter a design contest that requires the use of the Shape Builder Tool.
This will help you push your skills to the limit and learn from the work of other designers.
Browse courses on Shape Builder Tool
Show steps
  • Find a design contest that requires the use of the Shape Builder Tool.
  • Create a design for the contest.
  • Submit your design to the contest.

Career center

Learners who complete How to use the shape builder tool in Adobe Illustrator will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Graphic designer
As a Graphic Designer, you are responsible for creating visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. In this role, you'll use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create complex and visually appealing designs for various projects such as logos, brochures, websites, and packaging. This course can help you build a foundation in using the Shape Builder Tool, giving you an edge in the competitive design industry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic designer
Web Designer
A Web Designer is tasked with creating the visual layout and user interface for websites. You'll use various design tools, including the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator, to create visually appealing and user-friendly designs that enhance the user experience. This course will equip you with the skills to use the Shape Builder Tool effectively, enabling you to design engaging and interactive websites that stand out online.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Designer
UX Designer
User Experience (UX) Designers focus on enhancing the user's interaction with products and services. As a UX Designer, you'll leverage the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create prototypes and wireframes that optimize user flow and ensure a seamless user experience. This course will provide you with a solid understanding of how to use the Shape Builder Tool to design user-centered experiences that meet the needs of your target audience.
See salaries and explore the career path for UX Designer
UI Designer
UI Designers specialize in designing the user interface of software or mobile applications. They use tools like the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create visually appealing and intuitive user interfaces. This course can help you develop your skills in using the Shape Builder Tool, giving you an advantage in creating user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing interfaces that enhance the overall user experience.
See salaries and explore the career path for UI Designer
Art Director
Art Directors oversee the visual aspects of creative projects, ensuring that the final product aligns with the brand's vision and message. As an Art Director, you'll use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to guide your team in creating visually stunning designs for various projects, such as advertising campaigns, brand identities, and packaging. This course can help you build your expertise in using the Shape Builder Tool, empowering you to lead your team in creating impactful and visually cohesive designs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Art Director
Creative Director
Creative Directors are responsible for the overall creative vision and execution of projects. They lead and inspire teams to deliver innovative and impactful creative solutions. As a Creative Director, you'll use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to visualize and communicate your creative concepts effectively. This course provides insights into how to use the Shape Builder Tool to create visually compelling designs that align with your creative vision and drive successful project outcomes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Creative Director
Illustrator
Illustrators create visual content for various purposes, including books, magazines, websites, and advertising campaigns. As an Illustrator, you'll use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create visually engaging illustrations that convey ideas and emotions. This course can help you develop your skills in using the Shape Builder Tool, enabling you to produce captivating illustrations that stand out and resonate with your audience.
See salaries and explore the career path for Illustrator
Visual Designer
Visual Designers use visual elements to communicate messages and create visually appealing experiences. They work on projects ranging from website design to branding and advertising. As a Visual Designer, you'll use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create visually impactful designs that effectively convey your message. This course can enhance your skills in using the Shape Builder Tool, giving you the ability to create visually stunning designs that engage your audience.
See salaries and explore the career path for Visual Designer
Motion Graphics Designer
Motion Graphics Designers create animated graphics for various platforms, including television, film, and the web. They use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create visually appealing and engaging motion graphics that capture the attention of viewers. This course can help you develop your skills in using the Shape Builder Tool, enabling you to create dynamic and visually stunning motion graphics that convey your message effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Motion Graphics Designer
Digital Designer
Digital Designers create visual content for digital platforms, such as websites, social media, and mobile applications. As a Digital Designer, you'll use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to design visually engaging and user-friendly digital experiences. This course can enhance your skills in using the Shape Builder Tool, empowering you to create visually appealing and effective digital designs that meet the needs of your users.
See salaries and explore the career path for Digital Designer
Multimedia Designer
Multimedia Designers create content that combines various media elements, such as text, images, audio, and video. As a Multimedia Designer, you'll use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create visually appealing and engaging multimedia content that captivates your audience. This course can help you develop your skills in using the Shape Builder Tool, enabling you to create dynamic and visually stunning multimedia experiences that convey your message effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Multimedia Designer
Photographer
Photographers capture visual images using cameras. As a Photographer, you'll use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to enhance your photographs and create visually compelling images. This course may be useful for learning how to use the Shape Builder Tool to create unique and visually appealing effects in your photographs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Photographer
Video Editor
Video Editors create and edit video content for various platforms, including television, film, and the web. As a Video Editor, you'll use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create visually appealing and engaging video content that captures the attention of viewers. This course may be useful for learning how to use the Shape Builder Tool to enhance your videos and create visually stunning effects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Video Editor
Animator
Animators create animated content for various platforms, including television, film, and the web. As an Animator, you'll use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create visually appealing and engaging animations that capture the attention of viewers. This course may be useful for learning how to use the Shape Builder Tool to create dynamic and visually stunning animations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Animator
Game Designer
Game Designers create video games. As a Game Designer, you'll use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create visually appealing and engaging game assets. This course may be useful for learning how to use the Shape Builder Tool to create unique and visually appealing game assets.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Designer

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in How to use the shape builder tool in Adobe Illustrator.
Cover image
Illustrator CS4 for Windows and Macintosh
Save
This comprehensive guide to Illustrator covers everything you need to know about the software, including the Shape Builder tool. It great reference for experienced users who want to learn more about the program's advanced features.
Illustrator CS4 for Windows and Macintosh
Paperback
Check
Illustrator CS4 for Windows and Macintosh
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
CorelDRAW X8: The Official Guide
Save
This comprehensive guide to Illustrator covers everything you need to know about the software, including the Shape Builder tool. It great reference for experienced users who want to learn more about the program's advanced features.
CorelDRAW X8: The Official Guide
Paperback
$$
CorelDRAW X8: The Official Guide
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Adobe After Effects CC
Save
This comprehensive guide to Illustrator covers everything you need to know about the software, including the Shape Builder tool. It great reference for experienced users who want to learn more about the program's advanced capabilities.
Adobe After Effects CC
Paperback
Check
Adobe After Effects CC
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Albert Talbot: Master of Disguise
Save
This online course provides a comprehensive overview of Illustrator, including the Shape Builder tool. It great option for experienced users who want to learn more about the software's advanced features.
Albert Talbot: Master of Disguise
Paperback
$
Albert Talbot: Master of Disguise
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Adobe Photoshop Classroom in a Book (2020 release)
Save
Comprehensive guide to Adobe Illustrator, covering all the basics and more. It's a great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the software, regardless of their skill level.
Adobe Photoshop Classroom in a Book (2020 release)
Paperback
$$$
Adobe Photoshop Classroom in a Book (2020 release)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Adobe Illustrator WOW! Book for CS6 and CC
Save
Collection of tips, tricks, and techniques for using Adobe Illustrator. It includes a chapter on the Shape Builder tool, which provides detailed instructions on how to use the tool to create complex shapes and designs. The book is written in a fun and engaging style, with plenty of examples and illustrations.
The Adobe Illustrator WOW! Book for CS6 and CC
Paperback
Check
The Adobe Illustrator WOW! Book for CS6 and CC
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Design with Adobe Creative Cloud Classroom in a Book
Save
Comprehensive guide to Adobe Illustrator for beginners. It covers all the basics of the program, including the Shape Builder tool. The book is written in a clear and concise style, with step-by-step instructions and plenty of illustrations.
Design with Adobe Creative Cloud Classroom in a...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Instructor
Monica I. Heredia Rodriguez
Good to know
Taught by educators experienced in graphic design industry
Focuses on the real-world application of Adobe Illustrator's shape builder tool
Meant for beginners and intermediate-level learners who want to enhance their graphic design skills
May require access to Adobe Illustrator software, which may not be accessible to all learners
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