: Why are vector shapes sometimes left unclosed? I don't see it often, but I've seen it a few times in vector files: some of the shapes were left unclosed. The SE logo is not an example of

@Caterina889

I'd say its due to either an inexperienced user leaving paths open, or an automated processes which fails to close paths. There is no technical benefit or reason to leaving filled paths open which I am aware of.

It may seem like a small matter. However, reproduction equipment (imagesetters, platemakers, embroidery, etc) can choke and spit on open vector paths with fills applied to them. Illustrator uses its' own logic to determine how to represent an open path with a fill. But I stress, that's Illustrator's logic and not physics restrictions or "givens". Anything other than Illustrator is free to determine how an open path with a fill should be rendered. And often what is rendered may not be what is expected.

Simply because a fill appears to be acceptable with an open path in Illustrator, you shouldn't assume it's not an issue anywhere else.

The best practice is to always close an Illustrator path if there is a fill applied.

And note, I stated "filled paths". Open paths with strokes are another matter and are generally acceptable anywhere since the path is used as a spine rather than a container.

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