Stroke issue

[tuilorraine]

I have an annoying problem that my stroke does not follow the path.It occurs when using the pen tool and also with the pencil tool. The problem is also inconsistent. It works as expected sometimes and not others. It can be seen in this screenshot which shows two with the problem and one without,  all drawn at the same time with the same settings.

[tuilorraine]

I don't know why but clicking the default style in the styles menu seems to have solved the problem. Would be interested to know if anyone can explain why this worked.

[Monika Gause · Accepted solution]

Probably you have some effect set up, which affects the strokes you draw. You can select the path and then open Window > Appearance to check it out.

Then also the setting "New Art has basic appearance" when turned on will keep your new paths clear of any effects.

Please check out this video for an introduction to the Appearance panel: https://youtu.be/zXvRbN03MzQ 

[tuilorraine]

Thank-you so much for this advice. I'm very much an amateur with illustrator and have not really used the appearance panel as far as I remember, so I will certainly check out your links and study them.

[Monika Gause]

If you cannot find it, then please just select the path and open the Appearance panel and then take a screenshot and post it in this forum.

[tuilorraine]

Wow! I learnt so much from that little video. I followed every step. feel like a real pro now.  Thank-you.

[Monika Gause]

I'm glad you could solve it and that my video helped you.

The Appearance panel absolutely rocks and it truly helps to master Illustrator.