How do I Split a Graphic in Illustrator?

You can split a graphic in Illustrator using the Scissors Tool or the Knife Tool.

Splitting with the Scissors Tool

1. Select the Scissors Tool: Find the Scissors Tool in the Tools Panel or press C on your keyboard.
2. Click on the path: Click on the path you want to split. This creates a cut point.
3. Click again to complete the split: Click another point on the path to complete the split.
4. Move the segments: You can now move the newly separated path segments independently.

Splitting with the Knife Tool

1. Select the Knife Tool: Find the Knife Tool in the Tools Panel or press K on your keyboard.
2. Draw a line across the path: Click and drag the Knife Tool across the path you want to split.
3. Release the mouse button: This will create a cut line.
4. Select the path segments: You can now select and move the newly separated path segments.

Practical Insights

• The Scissors Tool is helpful for making precise cuts at specific points on a path.
• The Knife Tool is ideal for splitting a path with a single cut line across its entire width.
• You can also use the Pathfinder panel to split objects, but this method will merge the objects together.