The Pen Tool is one of the most versatile tools in graphics software, such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. It is primarily used to create precise vector paths, shapes, and selections, making it an essential tool for designers, illustrators, and digital artists. In engineering software like AutoCAD, Fusion 360, and other CAD programs, the pen tool is crucial in precision drafting, designing complex curves, and defining geometry for engineering components.

Vector vs. Bitmap

Vector graphics software, like Illustrator, generates artwork using mathematical equations. These equations are displayed as points and paths that shape the images. One key advantage of vector graphics is their ability to be resized without any loss in quality. Applications such as Illustrator are especially valuable for designing artwork that requires sharp edges and precise color areas.

Bitmap graphics programs, like Photoshop, interpret images as an arrangement of tiny squares known as pixels. Like a mosaic, a bitmap image consists of thousands, millions, or even billions of pixels. When resized, these images can become jagged, blurred, or distorted. Bitmap images, such as continuous-tone photographs, are ideal for artwork with intricate textures and shading.

In the example below, I zoomed in on an image of Larrie in Illustrator to examine the details more closely. The image on the left shows how it would look if converted to a bitmap. You can view your artwork in this mode by selecting View > Pixel Preview. The image on the right displays the artwork zoomed in using Illustrator’s default Preview mode. Notice that the vector image maintains its clarity while the bitmap image appears pixelated.

To gain a clearer understanding of the key differences between vector and bitmap graphics, you will undertake the following exercise.

PEN TOOL EXERCISE #2

Start by opening a bitmap silhouette image in Photoshop.

• Use the Rectangular Marquee tool to select a portion of the image.
• In the Generative Fill dialogue box, enter the prompt.
• Experiment until you achieve satisfying results.

• Save the Photoshop document.
• Export the image in JPEG format.

• Open the JPEG file in Illustrator.
• Create a new vector layer above the reference image.
• Double-click the reference image layer and change it to a template.
• Set the stroke color to red and the fill color to none.
• Set the stroke width to 0.25.
• Trace the image carefully.
• Be sure to click and drag the control handles in the direction you want to draw.

• Use the Direct Selection tool to refine your line work
• The goal is to accurately trace the image with a single continuous line.

Cut The Image Out With Laser Cutter

Go to the Epilog Laser page and follow the instructions.