Reflect, Repeat, or Mirror? The Smartest Way to Symmetry in Illustrator
4 minute readCreating symmetrical artwork, reflected shapes, and geometric designs in Adobe Illustrator is a core part of many creative workflows. But depending on the tools used, the process can be either simple or surprisingly time-consuming.
In this post, we’ll compare the native symmetry tools in Illustrator with MirrorMe, a free plugin from Astute Graphics that instantly mirrors your artwork as you draw.
Whether you're working with paths, building mandalas, or designing from a center point, here’s how the tools stack up.
Option 1: Using Illustrator’s Reflect Tool
The Reflect Tool is a classic Illustrator feature that lets you manually flip objects across an axis.
Pros:
Built into Illustrator
Great for simple, one-time reflections
Works well with basic shapes and paths
Cons:
Doesn’t update dynamically
You need to manually reflect and reposition each time you edit
Does not offer live preview while drawing
How to use it:
Select your object or shape
Press the O key to activate the Reflect Tool
Click to set the reflection axis (usually the center of your artwork)
Option-drag on macOS or Alt-drag on Windows to create a reflected copy
Press Enter for precise values
Option 2: Using Illustrator’s Repeat Tool (Radial or Mirror)
The Repeat feature in Illustrator is newer and adds live symmetry functionality.
Pros:
Live updates as you draw or edit
Radial and Mirror modes
Good for patterned or geometric design
Cons:
Can be a bit hidden or unintuitive to find
Limited flexibility compared to dedicated symmetry tools
Not always ideal for freeform symmetry
How to use it:
Select your object
Go to Object > Repeat > Radial
Adjust the interactive dials to add more copies, change the start and end points, and move the center axis
This works well for basic symmetrical layouts but can feel a bit limited if you're trying to create more intricate mirrored paths or build multi-axis designs.
Option 3: Using MirrorMe (Free Plugin from Astute Graphics)
MirrorMe gives you real-time symmetry in Illustrator. It’s perfect for designers who work with centered paths, symmetrical artwork, or geometric designs and want instant feedback as they draw.
Pros:
Instantly mirrors as you draw or edit
Supports multiple axes (up to 72!)
Simple panel-based control
Great for live-symmetry workflows and iterative design
Options to trim and join shapes automatically, or reflect only along selected axes
100% free with your Astute Graphics account
Cons:
Requires installing the free plugin via Astute Manager
Works with a stylus device (but not required)
How to use it:
Install MirrorMe using Astute Manager (free with an AG account)
Go to Window > Astute Graphics > MirrorMe to open the panel
Choose how many axes you want (from 1 to 72!)
Position the mirror axis or center point directly on the artboard
If you’re just reflecting a shape once or twice, Illustrator’s built-in tools will do the job. But if you regularly create symmetrical artwork, logos, characters, or mandalas, MirrorMe is a massive time-saver.
Bonus Tip 💡
MirrorMe is especially powerful when paired with a drawing tablet. Sketch directly on one side of the mirror axis and see perfectly symmetrical paths appear instantly.
Try MirrorMe Free
No credit card needed. Create an Astute Graphics account, download Astute Manager and get MirrorMe today.
