Custom Tree Brush

Illustrator allows you to create custom brushes from vector artwork, making it easy to quickly populate site or floor plans with repeated graphics. Follow these steps to import or create a tree symbol and turn it into a reusable brush.

No Trees

With Trees

Importing or Drawing a Tree Symbol

Importing a Tree Vector

Go to File > Place.

Select a tree graphic (preferably a simple black silhouette) and click Place.

Resize the tree as needed using the Selection Tool (V).

Drawing Your Own Tree

Use the Ellipse Tool (L) to draw a circular canopy.

Optionally add a small rectangle for a trunk.

Make your tree as detailed or simple to fit your design

Select all elements and go to Object > Group to keep them together.

Creating a Scatter Brush

Select your tree graphic.

Open the Brushes panel by going to Window > Brushes.

Click the New Brush icon and select Scatter Brush, then click OK.

In the Scatter Brush Options window:

Name your brush (e.g., “Tree Brush”).

Adjust Size, Spacing, Scatter, and Rotation.

Use the Random options to make tree placement feel more natural.

Click OK to save your brush.

Applying the Tree Brush

Select the Paintbrush Tool (B).

Draw a line or path where you want to place trees.

With the path selected, click your Tree Brush in the Brushes panel.

Trees will be scattered along the path based on your settings.

Editing or Expanding Brush Strokes

To edit brush settings, double-click the brush in the Brushes panel.

To convert the brush stroke into editable objects, go to Object > Expand Appearance.

Ungroup if needed to adjust individual trees.

Saving Your Brush and File

Go to File > Save As (Shift + Ctrl + S / Shift + Cmd + S).

Choose:

AI (Retains brush definitions and vectors for future editing.)

PDF (Preserves vector quality for sharing.)

SVG (Useful for web or digital drawings.)

Click Save and adjust export options if prompted.

Last updated by Abigail Green - May 2025

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