How to Crop in Illustrator CS6?

Cropping an object in Adobe Illustrator CS6 involves using a clipping mask. Here's how to do it, as outlined by the provided reference:

Steps to Crop

1. Start with an Image: Begin with an image that extends beyond the edges of the artboard. This means that the portion of the image you want to keep is within the artboard area, and some parts are outside the artboard.
2. Create a Cropping Path: Draw a shape that defines the area you want to keep from the original image. This shape acts as the cropping path. The cropping path must be the same size as your desired final area for the cropped image.
   • For example, if you want to crop to the exact dimensions of the artboard, draw a rectangle that precisely matches the artboard.
3. Position the Cropping Path: Arrange the cropping path over the image portion that you want to keep. Ensure the cropping path (e.g. rectangle) is on top of the image (i.e., it is in front of the image layer).
4. Create the Clipping Mask: Select both the image and the cropping path. Then, go to Object > Clipping Mask > Make. This will mask everything outside of the path to give the appearance of a cropped image.

Understanding Clipping Masks

• A clipping mask uses a vector shape (like the rectangle or other drawing) to hide portions of other artwork.
• Only the content within the clipping shape remains visible.
• The original image is not actually cropped; it remains intact but is only visible within the boundaries of your shape.
• The advantage of using clipping masks is that you can always adjust the clipping path or the image underneath without losing data.

Example

Imagine a photograph of a landscape that overlaps the artboard. To crop only the portion within the artboard:

1. Make sure your image layer is visible and is underneath the cropping path.
2. Draw a rectangle that matches the dimensions of the artboard precisely.
3. Position this rectangle over the photograph portion that you want to keep.
4. Select both the rectangle and the photograph, then apply the clipping mask. The photograph will appear cropped to the artboard boundaries.