Removing one shape from another in Adobe Illustrator is easily achieved using the Pathfinder panel's Minus Front function. This powerful tool allows for precise subtractive Boolean operations on overlapping shapes.
Using the Pathfinder Panel for Shape Subtraction
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Select your shapes: First, select both shapes. Ensure the shape you want to remove is on top (in the Layers panel). If not, rearrange the layer order.
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Open the Pathfinder Panel: Go to
Window > Pathfinderto open the Pathfinder panel. -
Use Minus Front: Click the "Minus Front" button in the Pathfinder panel. This subtracts the topmost shape from the shape(s) below it, effectively "punching out" the top shape from the bottom one. The top shape will be removed from the bottom, leaving the remainder of the bottom shape. The YouTube video How To Subtract Shapes In Adobe Illustrator demonstrates this process. Many other online tutorials, like the one at y-designs.com, also explain this technique.
Alternative Method: Eraser Tool
For more freeform removal of parts of a shape, the Eraser Tool offers flexibility. Select the Eraser Tool (Shift+E), adjust its size and settings as needed, then drag over the sections of the shape you want to remove. Adobe's Help documentation provides more detail on using the Eraser tool.
Remember that the Pathfinder method creates a new, combined shape, while the Eraser Tool directly modifies the existing shape. Choose the method that best suits your workflow and desired outcome.
