Creating Block Arrows

[patti_mac]

Hi, back in InDesign CS5, I seem to remember simply using the shape tools to create a filled arrow, then copying and pasting that, and finally connecting the two shapes using the pen tool. From there I could color in the spaces between the lines and the shapes to create a block style arrow. I can't seem to do that now, and I can't create a path using lines. I must be missing a step-can someone fill me in? I'd You can see the spaces between the two arrow heads.

Thank you!

[Mike Witherell]

Have you tried using the Pathfinder panel to join the two shapes?

[jane-e · Accepted solution]

Draw the top shape with a rectangle frame tool. Draw the bottom shape with a polygon frame tool set to 3 sides. (Double click the tool to change the options.)

Use the Direct Selection tool (white arrow) to adjust the anchor points.

Then combine the two shapes with the Pathfinder as Mike said. You can find it as a panel or in the Object menu.

Now fill your new shape.

Also, if the shape you have is already drawn, select it with the Direct Selection tool, zoom in, and post another screen shot. You may be able to clean it up using the Pen tool, Delete Anchor Point tool, and Add Anchor tool. (It appears you have two arrowheads.)