Masking shapes in Adobe Illustrator, also known as creating a Clipping Mask, uses one shape to hide or reveal parts of other objects. The topmost object acts as the mask, and only the portions of the objects beneath it that fall within the boundaries of the mask shape are visible.
Here's how to create a clipping mask using various methods in Illustrator:
Understanding the Basics
Before creating a clipping mask, you need at least two objects:
- The object or group of objects you want to mask (these will be below the mask shape).
- The shape that will act as the mask (this must be the topmost object).
Select all the objects you wish to include in the clipping mask. Ensure the object intended as the mask is at the very top of the stacking order for the selected items.
Methods to Create a Clipping Mask
Illustrator provides several convenient ways to apply a clipping mask to your selected objects.
Method 1: Using the Object Menu
This is a standard method accessible via the application's menu bar.
- Select all the objects you want to mask.
- Go to the Object menu at the top.
- Navigate to Clipping Mask.
- Select Make from the submenu.
Method 2: Using the Shortcut Key
For a faster workflow, you can use a keyboard shortcut.
- Select all the objects you want to mask.
- Press the Command + 7 key combination on macOS or Control + 7 on Windows.
Method 3: Using the Layers Panel
The Layers panel offers a visual way to manage and create clipping masks.
- Open the Layers panel (Window > Layers).
- Select all the objects you want to mask within the artboard or directly in the Layers panel.
- Ensure the masking shape is the topmost object within its layer or group.
- With the objects selected, look at the bottom of the Layers panel and click the Make/Release Clipping Mask icon. This icon typically looks like a circle overlapping a square.
Method 4: Using the Right-Click Context Menu
A quick way directly from the artboard.
- Select all the objects you want to mask on the artboard.
- Right-click on any of the selected objects.
- From the context menu that appears, select Make Clipping Mask.
Summary of Methods
| Method | Steps | Shortcut (Windows/Mac) |
|---|---|---|
| Object Menu | Select objects > Object > Clipping Mask > Make | --- |
| Shortcut Key | Select objects > Press Key Combination | Control + 7 / Command + 7 |
| Layers Panel | Select objects > Click Make/Release Clipping Mask icon (bottom) | --- |
| Right-Click | Select objects > Right-click > Make Clipping Mask | --- |
Using any of these methods will apply the clipping mask, effectively hiding the portions of the lower objects that fall outside the boundaries of the topmost masking shape.
