Extend, join, and convert paths

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to extend, join, close, and convert paths in Adobe InDesign for precise shape control.

Open paths can be extended or joined to create continuous shapes. These operations allow precise control over path direction and structure while maintaining smooth or corner transitions.

Extend an open path

Select the Pen tool and position it over an endpoint of an open path until the pointer changes.

Select the endpoint to begin extending the path.

To create a corner point, select where you want the segment to end.

To create a smooth point, select and drag where you want the curved segment to end.

Connect two open paths

Select the Pen tool and position it over the endpoint of the first open path until the pointer changes.

Select the endpoint to begin extending the path.

To connect to another open path, select the endpoint of the other path when the merge symbol appears next to the pointer icon.

To connect a new path, draw the new segment, then move the pointer to the existing path’s endpoint and select when the merge symbol appears.

Close or join paths

Select an open path with the Selection tool.

Select Window > Object & Layout > Pathfinder.

To close an open path, use the Selection tool to select the path and select the Close Path icon.

To close the endpoints between two paths, select the paths and select the Join Path icon. You can select the Join Path icon again to join the second endpoint.

Convert path shape

You can transform any existing path into a predefined shape, such as a triangle or polygon. The original stroke settings are retained after conversion, ensuring visual consistency.

When converting to a polygon, the resulting shape follows the settings defined in the Polygon Settings dialog box.

Convert a path using the Object menu

Select the path you want to convert using the Selection tool or the Direct Selection tool.

Select Object > Convert Shape and then apply the desired shape from the submenu: Rectangle, Rounded Rectangle, Beveled Rectangle, Inverse Rounded Rectangle, Ellipse, Triangle, Polygon, Line, or Orthogonal Line.

Convert a path using the Pathfinder panel

Select the path with the Selection tool.

Select Window > Object & Layout > Pathfinder.

Select your desired shape from the Convert Shape section in the Pathfinder panel.

Note

If the new shape includes corner effects, the radius is determined by the values set in the Corner Options dialog box (Object > Corner Options).

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