Using the Transform palette


    The Transform palette displays information about the location, size, and orientation of one or more selected objects. By typing new values, you can modify the selected objects or their pattern fills, or both. You can also change the transformation reference point and lock the object's proportions.

    All values in the palette refer to the bounding boxes of the objects except for the X and Y values, which refer to the selected reference point. You can also use commands in the Transform palette menu to control whether an object's strokes and patterns scale with the object. For general information on using palettes, see Using palettes.

    Illustration of Transform palette with these callouts: A. Reference point locator B. Palette menu C. Lock proportions icon
    Transform palette A. Reference point locator B. Palette menu C. Lock proportions icon

    Tip iconUse the Info palette to view the current dimensions and position of your selection as you transform it.

To use the Transform palette:

  1. Choose Window > Transform.
  2. Select an object to transform.
  3. If the object uses a pattern fill, choose any of the following options from the Transform palette menu:
    • Transform Object Only.
    • Transform Pattern Only.
    • Transform Both to scale both the object and its pattern fill.

    Note: When Transform Pattern Only is selected, a warning icon Warning icon displays in the lower left area of the palette to remind you that the option is selected. You can click the icon to both deselect Transform Pattern Only and select Transform Both.

  4. Do any of the following:
    • To maintain the object's proportions, click the lock proportions icon Lock proportions icon in the palette. When the option is selected, black brackets display above and below the icon.
    • Enter new values in the text boxes.
    • Choose values from available pop-up menus.
    • Choose commands from the palette menu.
  5. Press Tab, Enter, or Return to apply the change.
  6. For more information about using the Transform palette to resize or reshape objects or patterns, see Scaling objects with the Transform palette and Shearing with the Transform palette; to move objects with the palette, see Moving objects; to rotate objects with the palette, see Rotating objects.

    Note: To ensure that values entered in the Transform palette (and Info palette) include stroke weight and effects, choose Edit > Preferences > General (Windows) or Illustrator > Preferences > General (Mac OS), select Use Preview Bounds, and click OK.