Transforming Objects

There are several ways to transform objects:

• Scale: make an object bigger or smaller
• Skew: stretch or compress an object across a three-dimensional plane
• Distort: distort objects by stretching or compressing a corner of the object
• Rotate: move the object clockwise or counter-clockwise

Transforming is done by using the transformation tool in the toolbar:

If you hold down the transformation tool, you will see three different options:

1. Scale
2. Skew
3. Distort

You can rotate an object using any of the 3 transformation options.

We'll begin by scaling an object -- making it larger or smaller

Scale

Select the scale tool on the toolbar or, using the file menu, choose Modify > Transform > Scale.

When the scale tool is engaged, "transformation handles" will appear around the object -- these are small rectangles and a dot in the middle of the object. (shown right)

To make the object smaller or larger, simply grab an edge and drag the edge to the desired new position.

• Dragging the corners retains the proportion of the object.
• Dragging the top or bottom makes the object taller or shorter
• Dragging the sides makes the object wider or narrower

Skew

Select the skew tool on the toolbar -- or, using the file menu, choose Modify > Transform > Skew.

Once again, the "transformation handles" will appear around the object. The difference between skew and scale is that when you drag a handle using skew, it will transform the object as if it were twisting three-dimensionally -- as shown in the example below.

Using the skew tool makes it look like the right side of the rectangle is being lifted toward the viewer.

Distort

Distort is similar to skew with the exception that you can manipulate each corner independently, creating bizzarre effects.

Select the distort tool on the toolbar -- or, using the file menu, choose Modify > Transform > Distort.

You can drag each corner independently, as in the example shown below:

Rotate

You can rotate using any of the transformation tools. You'll notice that when you've selected a transformation tool, your cursor will change to a circular arrow when the cursor is outside of your object. To rotate, simply click and move your cursor in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. Your object will rotate accordingly. Once you have your object in the position you'd like, simply release the mouse button.

Exercise

1. Create a square (see lesson 3 if you need review)
2. Use the scale tool to make your square larger.
3. Use the skew tool to make it appear that the right-end of the square is tilted toward the viewer.
4. Use the distort tool to make your square look like a diamond.
5. Rotate your diamond onto its side.