Knowing how to cut objects in Illustrator is an essential skill for any designer. Whether you’re working on a logo, an icon, or a detailed illustration, cutting shapes helps you create cleaner designs and more creative results.
Illustrator offers several tools for cutting, each with its own strengths. In this guide, you’ll explore 4 of the best ways to cut objects in Illustrator, learn when to use them, and see practical examples to apply right away.
1. Cut Objects in Illustrator with the Pathfinder Tool
The Pathfinder Tool is a powerful option when you want to reshape or combine multiple objects. It offers several useful functions:
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Trim: Removes the overlapping parts of shapes.
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Divide: Splits shapes into separate sections you can recolor or edit.
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Minus Front / Minus Back: Cuts objects using those in front or behind.
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Intersect: Keeps only the overlapping area.
👉 Best use: Creating logos, icons, or custom shapes with geometric precision.
2. Cut Objects in Illustrator with the Eraser Tool (Shift + E)
The Eraser Tool works just like a traditional eraser, removing parts of a vector object.
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It works on shapes, paths, and outlined text.
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It does not work on live text or raster images.
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Great for freehand edits when you want a quick fix.
👉 Best use: Making fast adjustments or removing small parts of a vector.
3. Cut Objects in Illustrator with the Scissors Tool (C)
The Scissors Tool is perfect when you need accuracy. It allows you to split a path exactly where you want:
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Click on a segment between two anchor points to cut.
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Once cut, the new segments can be moved or deleted.
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Works especially well for strokes, circles, or curved paths.
👉 Best use: Cutting shapes or lines into precise pieces.
4. Cut Objects in Illustrator with the Knife Tool
The Knife Tool lets you create freehand cuts, giving you more creative freedom.
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Drag across an object to divide it into separate parts.
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Hold Alt (Option) to create straight-line cuts.
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Useful for irregular or organic shapes.
👉 Best use: Adding creative, handmade effects to your design.
5. Comparing the Cutting Tools in Illustrator
Each method to cut objects in Illustrator has its strengths. The Pathfinder Tool is precise and efficient when working with multiple shapes. The Eraser Tool feels intuitive and quick, although it doesn’t work with live text or images.
For accuracy, the Scissors Tool stands out—it allows you to cut paths exactly at the anchor points you choose. Meanwhile, the Knife Tool gives you the most freedom, letting you split objects with custom, creative strokes.
In short: Pathfinder is precise, Eraser is quick, Scissors is accurate, and Knife is creative. Choosing the right method depends on whether your design requires speed, precision, or flexibility.
Conclusion
Now you know the 4 best ways to cut objects in Illustrator. From the structure of Pathfinder to the creativity of the Knife Tool, each option gives you unique control over your designs.
Next time you need to split a path, remove part of a vector, or reshape overlapping objects, you’ll know exactly which tool to pick. Start experimenting with simple shapes, then apply these techniques to more complex illustrations.