When it comes to creating or working with artwork, one of the crucial elements to consider is the size of the artwork. Whether you are a graphic designer, an illustrator, or a photographer, understanding and accurately checking the size of the artwork in Adobe Illustrator can make a significant difference in the quality of your work. In this article, we will discuss how to check the artwork size effectively in Adobe Illustrator so that you can ensure the best outcome for your designs.
1. Open the Document in Adobe Illustrator
The first step is to open the document containing the artwork in Adobe Illustrator. If you are working on a new project, you can create a new document in Illustrator and proceed with your design. Alternatively, if you are checking the artwork size of an existing file, simply open the file in Illustrator.
2. Access the Artboard Tool
In Adobe Illustrator, the artboard is the printable area of the document. To access the artboard tool, you can go to the “Tools” panel on the left side of the screen and click on the “Artboard Tool” icon. Alternatively, you can press Shift + O to select the artboard tool directly.
3. Check the Artboard Size
Once you have selected the artboard tool, you can click on the artboard itself to view its size. The width and height of the artboard will be displayed in the control panel at the top of the screen. This will give you a clear indication of the size of the canvas you are working with.
4. Measure the Artwork
To measure the size of the artwork within the artboard, you can use the selection tool (V) to select the elements of the artwork. Once selected, you can check the width and height of the selected artwork in the control panel at the top of the screen. This will provide you with the precise dimensions of the selected artwork within the artboard.
5. Use the Ruler Tool
Another way to check the size of the artwork is by using the ruler tool in Adobe Illustrator. You can select the “Ruler Tool” from the “Tools” panel or press “Ctrl + R” to activate the ruler. With the ruler tool, you can click and drag on the artboard to measure specific areas and get accurate dimensions of the artwork.
6. Consider Bleed and Trim Areas
In addition to checking the size of the artwork, it is important to consider the bleed and trim areas if you are working on a print project. The bleed area extends beyond the trim edge to allow for slight inconsistencies during the printing and trimming process. You can adjust the size of the artboard and the artwork to accommodate the bleed and trim areas as necessary.
By following these steps, you can effectively check the size of the artwork in Adobe Illustrator. Whether you are creating digital designs or preparing artwork for print, having a clear understanding of the dimensions of your artwork is essential for achieving professional and high-quality results. With the right tools and techniques, you can ensure that your artwork is the perfect size for its intended purpose, whether it’s for digital use or for print production.