How to butt, or attach, a balloon to the panel border.
Butting balloons is an excellent way to conserve space in a tight panel. Use them only when necessary, though, as they can reduce the margin of error available when the lettering is merged with the finished artwork.
![](/tips/butting/butting1.gif)
1. The top line of text on a butted balloon should be wider than usual, but still a little narrower than the line directly below it. Draw the balloon so it overlaps the panel border.
![](/tips/butting/butting2.gif)
2. Using the box tool, draw a box that covers the area you want to remove. Make sure the edge is centered on the panel border.
![](/tips/butting/butting3.gif)
3. Send the box to back using Object > Arrange > Send to Back (command-shift-[). Select both items, and click “Minus Back” in the Pathfinder palette.
![](/tips/butting/butting4.gif)
4. Select the balloon(s) and tail, and click “Unite” (“Merge” in Illustrator 10 and above) in the Pathfinder palette, and you’re all set.
![](/tips/butting/butting5.gif)
5. Before finishing the page, be sure to zoom way in and make sure all your balloons line up exactly with the panel border.