Select the object you want to cut, and then select the Knife tool.
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Cut objects using the Knife and Scissors tools
Last updated on
11 May 2026
Learn how to cut objects in Adobe Illustrator using the Knife and Scissors tools.
You can cut and slice objects in Illustrator using both the Knife and Scissors tools. The Knife tool lets you draw freeform cuts, such as slicing a shape into pieces or create custom editable shapes. The Scissors tool helps cut paths at specific points or segments, such as splitting a path at anchor points or trimming a line.
Learn how to use the Knife tool and Scissors tool in Adobe Illustrator, and understand the key differences between them.
Drag across the object to cut it into separate shapes.
Release to split the object into separate shapes.
Select and edit each shape individually using the Direct Selection tool.
When smart guides are enabled, the Knife tool automatically snaps to anchor points and paths as you cut.
Tip
Hold Alt (Windows) or Option (macOS) while dragging across objects to create a straight cut.
Select the path you want to cut, and then select the Scissors tool.
Select an anchor point or path segment to cut it. Repeat to create additional cuts.
Use the Selection tool to move or separate the cut segments.
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