Script for Adobe Illustrator

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Description

Close Open Paths is a powerful yet simple script for Adobe Illustrator that automatically closes open vector paths in your selection. Whether you're cleaning up imported artwork, fixing incomplete shapes, or preparing files for cutting/printing, this script streamlines the process with an intuitive interface and real-time preview.

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Key Features

• Two Closing Methods: Choose between smooth curved segments (with handles) or straight line segments
• Real-Time Preview: See changes before applying them with the built-in preview toggle
• Smart Detection: Automatically identifies open paths in your selection, including those nested in groups and compound paths
• Batch Processing: Close multiple open paths simultaneously
• Visual Feedback: Hide edges option for cleaner preview, zoom-to-fit functionality
• Non-Destructive: Cancel anytime to revert changes

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Installation

1. Download the Close Open Paths.jsx script file.

2. Place the script in your Adobe Illustrator Scripts folder:

⮑ Mac: /Applications/Adobe Illustrator <Version>/Presets/<Language>/Scripts

⮑ Windows: C:\Program Files\Adobe\Adobe Illustrator <Version>\Presets\<Language>\Scripts

3. Restart Adobe Illustrator if it's already running.

4. Access the script via File > Scripts > Close Open Paths

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Tip: For quick access, you can also run scripts via File > Scripts > Other Script... and browse to the file location.

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Using the Script:

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➊ Prepare Your Document

• Open an Adobe Illustrator document containing paths you want to close
• Ensure your document has content (the script will alert you if the document is empty)

➋ Select Open Paths

• Use the Selection Tool (V) or Direct Selection Tool (A)
• Select one or more objects containing open paths
• The script works with individual path items, grouped objects, compound paths, multiple selections

Note: If nothing is selected, the script will prompt you to make a selection.

➌ Run the Script

• Go to File > Scripts > Close Open Paths
• The script will automatically check for open paths in your selection
• If all paths are already closed, you'll receive a notification

➍ Choose Your Closing Method

The dialog presents two options:

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🅰 Smooth joining (with handles)

• Creates curved closing segments that flow naturally with existing curves
• Preserves the organic feel of your paths
• Best for: Illustrations, logos, organic shapes, hand-drawn artwork

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🅱 Straight segments (no handles)

• Creates direct straight lines between endpoints
• Produces clean, geometric closures
• Best for: Technical drawings, geometric shapes, architectural plans

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➎ Use Preview Features

Preview Checkbox (enabled by default)

• Toggle on: See changes in real-time as you switch between closing methods
• Toggle off: View original paths without changes

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Hide Edges Checkbox

• Toggle on: Hides path outlines for a cleaner view of fills and strokes
• Toggle off: Shows path edges and anchor points
• Useful for evaluating the visual result without distractions

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Zoom Button ✚

• Click to fit your selection in the window
• Helps you see the full effect of path closures
• Automatically adjusts zoom level for optimal viewing

➏ Apply or Cancel

OK Button

• Applies the selected closing method to all open paths
• Switches back to the Selection Tool
• Changes are permanent (use Undo if needed)

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Cancel Button

• Reverts all paths to their original state
• No changes are made to your document
• Switches back to the Selection Tool

Best Practices

1. Preview First: Leave the Preview checkbox enabled to experiment with both closing methods before committing
2. Zoom for Detail: Use the zoom button to inspect how endpoints connect, especially for complex paths
3. Batch Workflow: Select multiple objects at once to close all open paths in one operation
4. Undo Safety: If you're not satisfied with the result, simply press Cmd/Ctrl+Z to undo
5. Nested Paths: The script automatically finds open paths within groups and compound paths—no need to ungroup first

☻ Wrap Up

Close Open Paths simplifies a tedious manual task into a single click. Whether you're cleaning up imported artwork or preparing files for production, this script gives you the control and flexibility to close paths exactly how you need them – with smooth curves or straight lines.

Install it once, and it becomes an essential part of your Illustrator workflow.

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