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Posted on 02/07/08 1:16:48 PM |
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Sandra Phillips
* Posts: 1 Reply |
Pen Tool
I'm having problems using the pen tool. As soon as I close a path, all the anchor points and handles disappear. I can't seem to be able to get them back - so can't make any adjustments once the path is closed Any advice greatly appreciated.  |
Posted on 02/07/08 1:58:01 PM |
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Nick Curtain
Model Master Posts: 1768 Reply  |
Re: Pen Tool
Sandra The pen is a complicated tool until you are conversant with it, so please persevere and it will pay dividends in the selection process. The modifier keys, Alt and CTRL will allow you to change the anchor points. Start the path by clicking with the pen. Add a second anchor point and before releasing the mouse drag to produce the bezier handles. Using CTRL will allow you to move the anchor point or change the curve. ALT will allow you to change the point to a curve or non curve point. In answer to your question, with the pen tool selected, hold down CTRL and the anchor points should appear. Nick |
Posted on 02/07/08 2:45:02 PM |
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SandyP
* Posts: 2 Reply |
Re: Pen Tool
Thanks Nick That really helps moving points around, and altering them - the only difference I'm finding is that the CTRL doesn't seem to bring up the anchor points. Instead it brings up a small dialog box - that begins with the option 'delete anchor point' The only way I seem to be able to see the anchor points is to use the path selection tool. Fiddly but I think I'm getting it....... Thanks |
Posted on 02/07/08 4:28:02 PM |
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Nick Curtain
Model Master Posts: 1768 Reply |
Re: Pen Tool
If you hold down CTRL and click on the path with the pen tool active the anchor points will appear. Keep CTRL held down and then click on the point you wish to adjust - the handles will appear. Nick |
Posted on 02/07/08 6:00:15 PM |
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Steve Caplin
Administrator Posts: 7068 Reply  |
Re: Pen Tool
Are you using a Mac or a PC, Sandy? The Ctrl key does different things on both. Try switching to the Direct Selection tool, which will allow you to select and move points around. |
Posted on 02/07/08 7:30:07 PM |
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SandyP
* Posts: 2 Reply |
Re: Pen Tool
Thanks Steve, I'm using a mac, the direct selection tool seems to be doing the job |
Posted on 03/07/08 07:13:25 AM |
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Steve Caplin
Administrator Posts: 7068 Reply |
Re: Pen Tool
Thought as much. When Nick says hold Ctrl, for you that's Command. The Pen tool is tricky, certainly - probably the single most difficult process to learn in Photoshop. But it's essential for making smooth selections, so stick with it! |
Posted on 03/07/08 07:19:58 AM |
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Nick Curtain
Model Master Posts: 1768 Reply |
Re: Pen Tool
Apologies Sandra, I should have asked the obvious question. I'm so used to using PC! Nick |