Illustrator 13 – Understanding Object Transformation

Illustrator 13 – Understanding Object Transformation

August 3, 2023

Object transformation is a crucial aspect of working with artwork in Illustrator. It allows you to adjust the size, rotation, and reflection of objects to achieve specific design goals. Let’s explore how to scale, rotate, and reflect objects using different methods and the Transform panel for precise transformations

Scaling Objects

To scale an object, select it with the Selection Tool (shortcut: V).

Click and drag any corner handle of the bounding box to scale the object proportionally.

To scale non-proportionally, hold the “Shift” key while dragging a corner handle.

To scale from the center of the object, hold the “Alt” (Option on Mac) key while dragging a corner handle.

For more precise scaling, you can use the Transform panel (Window > Transform).

Enter specific values for width and height in the Transform panel and press “Enter” to apply the transformation.

Rotating Objects

To rotate an object, select it with the Selection Tool.

Move the cursor outside the bounding box until it changes into a curved arrow.

Click and drag to rotate the object. Hold the “Shift” key to constrain rotation to 45-degree increments.

For more precise rotation, you can use the Transform panel.

Enter a specific value for rotation angle in the Transform panel and press “Enter” to apply the rotation.

Reflecting Objects

To reflect an object, select it with the Selection Tool.

Go to “Object” > “Transform” > “Reflect” or right-click and choose “Transform” > “Reflect.”

In the Reflect dialog box, choose the desired axis (Vertical or Horizontal) and click “OK.”

The object will be reflected accordingly.

For more precise reflection, you can use the Reflect tool (shortcut: O) or the Transform panel.

In the Transform panel, enter a specific value for reflection angle and press “Enter” to apply the reflection.

Transforming Multiple Objects

To transform multiple objects simultaneously, select all the objects you want to transform with the Selection Tool.

Apply scaling, rotation, or reflection using any of the methods mentioned above, and all selected objects will be transformed together.

To scale and rotate around a specific point, first, group the objects (Object > Group or Ctrl/Cmd + G), and then perform the transformation.