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Methods to Create a Clipping Mask

Published in Illustrator Clipping Masks 3 mins read

How to Add a Clipping Mask in Illustrator

Adding a clipping mask in Adobe Illustrator is straightforward and can be accomplished in several ways. A clipping mask reveals only the portion of an image (or object) that lies within the boundaries of another object, effectively cropping or shaping the image.

Here are three primary methods to add a clipping mask in Illustrator:

1. Using the Menu:

  • Select both the image you want to clip (this will be visible only within the bounds of the other object) and the object that will act as the clipping mask (the shape determining the visible area). Ensure the object you want to use as the clipping mask is selected on top.
  • Go to Object > Clipping Mask > Make.

2. Using the Keyboard Shortcut:

  • Select both the image to clip and the clipping mask object, with the clipping mask object selected on top.
  • Press Command + 7 (Mac) or Ctrl + 7 (Windows).

3. Using the Layers Panel:

  • Select both the image to clip and the clipping mask shape, with the clipping mask object selected on top.
  • At the bottom of the Layers panel, click the "Make Clipping Mask" icon (it looks like two overlapping rectangles).

Editing a Clipping Mask

After creating a clipping mask, you can edit either the clipping mask shape or the clipped image.

  • To edit the clipping mask, double-click the clipping mask in the Layers panel to enter isolation mode. Edit the clipping mask object; changes will be reflected in the final result. Exit isolation mode by double-clicking outside the clipping mask.
  • To edit the clipped image, you can directly select and modify the image. The changes will be reflected within the boundaries of the clipping mask.

Tips and Considerations

  • Order Matters: Ensure the object you want to use as a clipping mask is selected on top of the object you want to clip.
  • Group Objects (Optional): For complex shapes, group the objects you want to clip before creating the clipping mask. This will treat the group as a single unit.
  • Multiple Objects: A clipping mask can work with multiple objects within the clipping mask.

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