Attach and align objects to a path

Last updated on Oct 25, 2026

Learn how to use the Objects on Path tool to attach objects to a path, then align and space them automatically along its curve or line in Adobe Illustrator.

The Objects on Path tool attaches selected objects to a path and aligns them automatically, based on their position and the path's shape. Use it the first time you attach objects to a path and rearrange objects after attaching to a path.

Select objects and attach them to a path

Select the objects you want to attach using the Selection tool.

Select the Objects on Path tool in the toolbar. If you don't see it, select Edit Toolbar , and then add Objects on Path tool from the Modify section.

Select the target path. The objects attach and align to it, creating an Objects on Path group.

When you hover over a supported path, it highlights, and the pointer displays the Objects on Path tool icon. You can use one of the selected objects as the path itself.

Note

The path can be open or closed, straight-line or curved.

You can use one of the selected objects as the path.

The path stays visible after you attach objects, unlike with the Type on a Path tool.

You can also select Object > Objects on Path > Attach, or right-click when two or more objects are selected.

How Illustrator arranges objects by default

Illustrator applies these default rules so results stay predictable:

Order: Illustrator picks objects column by column, left to right, then top to bottom within each column, and places them along the path starting at its origin point. For basic shapes like rectangles and stars, the origin point is set by the shape's construction.

Attachment point: The center of each object attaches to the path's outline. Stroke weight isn't part of this calculation.

Distribution and spacing: The first object attaches to the path's origin point. On an open path, the last object attaches to the endpoint. Illustrator spaces the remaining objects evenly based on the distance between their attachment points.

Alignment relative to the path: Each object attaches vertically or horizontally to the path, and its original rotation angle rounds off to zero. The Transform section of the Properties panel reflects this net rotation.

Change the default attachment point and rotation

Double-click the Objects on Path tool in the toolbar.

In the Objects on Path Tool Options dialog box, select one of the nine points in Pivot to set the attachment point.

Select a rotation angle using the Rotate dropdown menu, and then select Save.

These settings apply only to objects you attach after this point. Objects already attached to a path stay as they are.

Restore default settings

Double-click the Objects on Path tool in the toolbar.

Select Reset, then select Save.

After attaching objects to a path, you can rotate them, adjust spacing, move them along the path, shuffle their order, or detach individual objects.

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