4
If the path is closed and you want to split it into two paths,
click the path again where you want to split it.
Dividing objects with the Knife tool
You can divide vector objects into separate pieces using the Knife
tool. The Knife tool is located in the Effects toolbar.
When you drag the Knife tool, it draws a cutting path. If the cutting
path divides an object into two parts, the result is two new objects. If
the cutting path crosses itself, the area inside the path becomes a new
object.
The Knife is similar to the Scissors tool; both tools divide vector
objects. The Scissors tool divides an object with a straight line
between the two points that you click. The Knife tool slices objects
along a freeform cutting path. Therefore, you can use the Knife tool
to cut curved edges.
You can use the Knife tool on open and closed vector objects. If you
slice one or more open paths, the resulting objects are open paths.
If you slice an open path that crosses itself, the path separates where
it crosses itself and where you slice it.
To use the Knife tool: Select the Knife tool. Drag in the docu-
ment to draw a cutting path that intersects the objects you want to
divide. The cutting path must intersect at least two points on an
objects perimeter. To constrain the path of the Knife tool to 45-
degree increments, press Shift as you drag. Release the Shift key to
drag freely.
Partial cuts
If you stop dragging before the cutting path intersects a
second point on an object's perimeter, the cutting path appears but the
object stays intact. To use this cutting path to divide the object, you
can drag a second cutting path so it intersects the perimeter of the
object and the first cutting path. Or, you can intersect the cutting path
with other cutting paths to create a closed shape. The part of the
object that falls within the closed shape becomes a separate object.
Cutting holes
You can cut out pieces of a vector object by drag-
ging inside of the object and creating a closed path. The parts of the
object that fall within the closed cutting path become separate
objects. To create a closed cutting path, the path must cross itself.
Gradient inks
If an objects fill ink is a gradient, and the style is
Radial, Directional, Rectangular, or Elliptical, the gradient remains
Knife tool
to slice an object
Drag the Knife tool