Saving and applying width profiles Adobe Illustrator width tool A width profile is a stored vector algorithm that holds information about width points along a stroke path. In simpler terms, a profile is a preset that saves width modifications you’ve made to a stroke. What’s great about width profiles is that they can be applied to any stroke no matter the angle, curvature or length. This makes stroke profiles not only a handy creative feature but an efficient one as well. As shown in the example above, your stroke profiles can be viewed by opening the Stroke window and clicking the Profile dropdown.
To add a new profile, select your modified stroke image manipulation service and choose the “Add to Profiles” option in the Profile dropdown of the Stroke window. Adobe Illustrator width tool The image above shows what it looks like to apply our stroke profile to a handful of different strokes. Notice how the stroke profile applies itself proportionally to strokes of all different sizes and curves. The width tool in action — By now, you’re probably imagining all of the possible uses of the width tool, but let’s go a step further and take a look at some real life design examples where the width tool would come in handy.
Adobe Illustrator width tool Original design by Rot Red In the example above, a single stroke can be used to create the “skeleton” of the “H” in the monogram for Hansen Photography. By using the width tool, specific segments of the stroke and be thickened to create a calligraphic look. This approach works great for custom typography that aims to read as elegant and custom. Adobe Illustrator width tool Original design by GOOSEBUMPS The example above shows how the width tool can be used to create an ornate horizontal break for a spirits company.