Select the Pen tool from the toolbar.
Last updated on
Oct 22, 2026
Learn how to merge open paths into continuous shapes or closed forms in Adobe Illustrator.
Connecting and joining paths combine separate path segments into unified shapes, extend existing artwork, or close open paths to create complete forms.
Use the Pen tool for precise control when connecting paths by clicking their endpoints. Use the Join command for quick merging through menu commands or keyboard shortcuts.
To modify the shape of existing path segments, learn how to adjust path segments.
Before connecting paths, ensure they're on unlocked layers with clearly visible endpoints. If the endpoints overlap exactly, you can create either a corner or a smooth join.
Extend an open path with the Pen tool
Add new segments to an existing path's endpoint to continue drawing from where you left off.
Position the pointer over the endpoint of the open path you want to extend until it indicates precise positioning.
Click the endpoint to activate it.
To create a corner point, position the Pen tool where you want the new segment to end and click.
To create a smooth point, position the Pen tool where you want the new curved segment to end and drag.
Extending a path that ends in a smooth point creates a straight segment rather than a curved one.
For comprehensive guidance, learn how to draw with the Pen tool.
Connect two open paths with the Pen tool
Merge two separate paths by clicking their endpoints to create a single continuous path.
Select the Pen tool from the toolbar.
Position the pointer over the endpoint of the first open path until it indicates precise positioning.
Click the endpoint to activate it.
To connect to another open path, click an endpoint on the second path. A small merge symbol appears when positioned precisely over the endpoint.
To connect a new path to an existing one, draw the new path segments, then move the Pen tool to the unselected endpoint of the existing path and click when the merge symbol appears.
Join two endpoints using the Control panel
When two path endpoints are close together or overlapping, quickly join them using the Control panel button.
Select both endpoints using the Direct Selection tool. If the endpoints are coincident, drag a marquee through or around both endpoints.
Click the Connect Selected End Points button in the Control panel.
Note
Illustrator uses corner joins when connecting open paths with this method.
Join paths using the Join command
Use the Join command to connect multiple open paths or to close a single path.
Select the open paths you want to join using the Selection tool.
Select Object > Path > Join or press Ctrl + J (Windows) or Command + J (macOS).
When anchor points don't overlap, Illustrator adds a line segment to bridge the paths. When joining more than two paths, Illustrator connects the paths with endpoints closest to each other first, repeating until all paths are joined. Selecting only one open path converts it into a closed path.
Joining paths may affect the appearance of complex attributes. The resulting path adopts the appearance of the topmost path in the selection.
Choose corner or smooth joins for overlapping points
When anchor points overlap exactly, specify whether to create a corner or a smooth join.
Select the overlapping anchor points or the entire path containing them.
Press Ctrl + Shift + Alt + J (Windows) or Command + Shift + Option + J (macOS).
Choose Corner or Smooth in the dialog that appears.
The Join option using Ctrl + J (Windows) or Command + J (macOS) creates only corner joins.
Design with precision in Illustrator
Bring your ideas to life with vector graphics tools built for creative freedom and accuracy.
