Select the Pen tool from the toolbar.
Last updated on
Sep 12, 2025
Learn how to draw curves using the Pen tool in Adobe Illustrator.
Draw C-shaped and S-shaped curves using the Pen tool.
Position the Pen tool where you want the curve to begin.
Drag to set the slope of the curve segment you’re creating.
Move the Pen tool to the desired location where you want the curve to end. Then, select one of the given methods as needed:
- To draw a C-shaped curve: Drag in a direction opposite to the previous direction line, then release the mouse button.
- To draw an S-shaped curve: Drag in the same direction as the previous direction line, then release the mouse button.
Tip
Press Ctrl (Windows) or Command (macOS) while dragging the handles of a smooth anchor point to make them unequal in length when drawing a curve.
Continue positioning and dragging the Pen tool to create a series of smooth curve segments.
To close the path:
- Position the Pen tool over the first anchor point, which appears hollow. A small circle appears next to the Pen tool pointer when positioned correctly.
- Select or drag to close the path.
To leave the path open:
- Ctrl-click (Windows) or Command-click (macOS) anywhere away from the path.
- Select a different tool or select Select > Deselect.
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