Modify the spine of blended objects

Last updated on Sep 11, 2025

Learn how to adjust, replace, or reverse the spine to control the alignment and direction of steps in a blended object.

The spine is the path along which the steps in a blended object are aligned. By default, the spine forms a straight line. 

Adjust the shape of spine

To adjust the shape of a spine, drag the anchor points and path segments on the spine with the Direct Selection tool. 

Replace the spine with a different path

Draw an object to use as the new spine.

Select the spine object and the blended object.

Select Object  > Blend  > Replace Spine

Reverse the order of a blend on its spine

Select the blended object.

Select Object  > Blend  > Reverse Spine