Merging overlapping points in Adobe Illustrator can be achieved using a straightforward method. Here's a breakdown of how to accomplish this, drawing from the provided reference:
The reference describes merging points on paths, specifically within Illustrator. It highlights how to make two overlapping points into one using the direct selection tool. Although the reference focuses on points, this ultimately merges the overlapping paths connected to those points.
Steps to Merge Overlapping Points
- Select the Direct Selection Tool (A): This tool allows you to select specific points and segments of your paths.
- Select the Overlapping Points: Click on the two overlapping points, select them both.
- Merge the Points: The reference doesn't explicitly state the method. However you will then have the option to join the two points. For example using Command + J (Mac) or Control + J (Windows).
- Verify the Merge: You should notice that the two selected points will merge into one single point, effectively merging the overlapping path segments connected to the points.
- The reference notes that after the points are merged it will make it just a tiny bit larger
- The resulting path remains selected after merging.
Practical Considerations
- Closed Paths: When merging overlapping paths to create a shape, ensure the paths close correctly to form a solid fill. If you merge points of the open paths, you will be joining paths into one but you will still have open paths.
- Precise Selection: The Direct Selection tool allows for precise selection of points. Ensure you are selecting only the points intended for merging.
- Alternatives: Depending on the complexity of the overlapping paths, the Pathfinder panel offers other ways to merge shapes. This method is more suited to creating solid shapes from intersecting paths, and while useful, the referenced method is more direct for overlapping points.
Example Use Case
Imagine you've created a shape using the Pen Tool but your paths are not clean, resulting in overlapping points. By using the steps above, you can merge those overlapping points into a single point and clean up your path.
Summary Table
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Select Direct Selection Tool |
| 2 | Select the two overlapping points |
| 3 | Merge the points. |
| 4 | Verify the merged path |
