Expert: Kevin Stohlmeyer - 1/19/2010

Question
I'm trying to make a reverse clipping mask using a circle positioned over a series of parallel diagonal lines. I read the other answer on reverse clipping masks using the pathfinder tool, but it doesn't seem to be working. I'd like to subtract the circle from the set of diagonal lines so that only the background color shows through in that area. Any ideas?

Answer
Hi Kevin,

You have to create your object to clip first with the Pathfinder panel.

Create a rectangle that encompasses your lines, drop a the shape you want to clip out of the lines on top of it, in this case a circle. Then select the box and circle and use the Pathfinder Panel (exclude) to create a hole in the larger shape.

Finally select your lines and the new shape and choose Object>Clipping Mask>Make. This will clip the circle out of the lines allowing you to see your background through the circular hole.


Thanks

Kevin