Creating an illustration of a sparkling disco ball might seem very complicated, and with good reason. In this new Adobe Illustrator tutorial we will try make it simple. We will be creating a really nice, shiny disco ball using only AI and our good taste in color selection. Overall, the coloring will be a real challenge. So get ready to create a vector that will have you dancing in your chair.

This is what we will be creating.

Creating the Basic Shape of the Disco Ball

In this part of tutorial we will create the basic shape of the ball with small rectangles. Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and just click on the Artboard. It will bring up the Ellipse Options box where we can set the dimension of the circle. Let’s set it to 200 x 200.

Now, grab the Rectangle Tool (M) from the Tool Panel and click somewhere on the Artboard. It will bring up the Rectangle Options box. We will set the width to 400 pixels and the height to 200 pixels.

Now we have to divide our rectangle into small squares.  To do that, under Object click Rasterize. Leave everything at its default and hit the OK button.

Select Object again and then Create Object Mosaic.

Set the Tile Spacing to 1 and the Number of Tiles to 60 and 30.

This way we have created many small squares that we will apply to the Disco Ball later.

We have to make a small adjustment to the group of small squares. In the Layer Panel make sure to remove the last rectangle on the list. This way we’ll have only small squares.

Grab the group of the small squares and drag it to the Symbol Panel. Make sure to set the Type to Graphic and hit the OK button.

Now when we have the symbol of the squares we can remove it from the Artboard.

Now we have to prepare the circle we created in the beginning of this tutorial. Grab the Direct Selection Tool (A) from the Tool Panel and select the left anchor point on the circle. Hit the Delete button on your keyboard in order to remove it.

Under Effect select 3D > Revolve. Make sure to set the Surface to No Shading. This way we will avoid creating unnecessary parts of the ball.

Now is the time to apply our squares to the ball. To do that hit the Map Art button. A new window will pop up. In the Symbol drop down menu select the symbol of the squares.

You will notice that the squares don’t cover the whole surface of the ball. To fix that just hit the Scale to Fit button in the bottom of the window. It will stretch out our symbol and will cover the ball.

Feel free to change the rotation of the cube in the 3D Revolve Options window. This way we will change the rotation of the disco ball as well.

When you are satisfied with the basic look of the Disco Ball make sure to select Object > Expand. Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the ball (several times). You should end up with the Layer Panel like this.

You will notice that one of the layers contains the front side of the ball, the other layer contains back side of the ball, and the other two layers contain only round paths. Remove both paths and the back side of the ball. You should end up with something like this.

This is actually the look of the Disco Ball without the nice colors which will give our illustration the fancy look we desire.

Applying Color Gradients

This is the part of the tutorial where we will show off our ability to turn something very simple (our red ball with small squares) into a stunning illustration of a shiny disco ball. In theory, all we have to do to it is Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the ball and to change their Fill color to something more colorful. Sounds easy.

For the right look, we have to find the exact combination of colors which will create the impression of a three dimensional object (ball) and the shiny effects. This can be very tricky. Given that a disco ball is actually a ball with many small mirrors attached to the surface all with the ability to reflect light and we have to recreate this effect. What we will try in this tutorial is to make several groups of rectangles and change their Fill color with colors that will blend nicely. But let’s move from words to deeds.

As we said, Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the disco ball. Now, with the Selection Tool (V) select the rectangles as it’s shown in the pictures below (don’t forget to hold the Shift key on the keyboard for multiple selections).

There are many rectangles that needs to be selected. It might be easier if you select the larger area at once and then holding the Shift key on your keyboard with Selection Tool (V) just deselect some rectangles.

Now, grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and click somewhere on the Artboard. In the Ellipse Options box set the dimensions to 200 x 200 (same as we did at the beginning) and hit the OK button. Send the new circle behind our disco ball (Shift + Ctrl . Cmd + [) and align it horizontally and vertically with the disco ball using the (Align Panel > Horizontal and Vertical Align Center).

Now we need to find a way to turn this boring illustration into a nice and fancy disco ball. Color gradients will help us to do that.

In this tutorial we will use a golden gradient, but feel free to use any color combination you like.

Apply the golden gradient to the circle behind the rectangles.

We will apply the same radial gradient to each part of the disco ball we’ve grouped. Make sure to use different angles when you are dragging the gradient with the Gradient Tool (G).

As you can see, we’ve made some improvements but we still need to work on details.

To emphasize the influence of the light we will set the Fill color for some rectangles to white (#FFFFFF). Feel free to use other colors as well, in order to reach the look you like. To be able to edit individual rectangles inside their groups, without ungrouping them, just enter the Isolation Mode that can be found under the right click.

Play around with colors, use different shades of the gradient until you create something you like.

To exit the Isolation Mode just click on the bar at the top of the window.

Our disco ball looks better now, but there is one more thing we can do to improve it. Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create a circle. Apply a radial gradient to the circle, as is shown below. Just make sure to set the Opacity of the white color on the left side of the slider to 0%.

Make a few copies (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + V) of the circle and place them on some of the white rectangles on the disco ball. It will create a nice glow around the sparkling mirrors.

Next Page to Continue

Almost there, but not quite done. Read more here to add the rest of the finishing touches!

Noupe

  

Tutorials are one of the best ways to learn and practice new tricks using Illustrator’s various tools. Learning through a step-by-step AI tutorial not only assists you in twisting the tools, but will also let you learn how to combine them in order to generate innovative and compound vector artwork, icons, and more.

In today’s post, we are presenting a collection of some valuable step by step Adobe Illustrator tutorials. These learning tools have been compiled to help guide you through the process of using this powerful program more efficiently. All the tutorials presented in this showcase have been created by some astute members of the graphic design community; therefore you will definitely be doing yourself a favor by checking out this collection.

Let us take a close look at the tuts. Feel free to share your opinion via the comment section below, and do let us know if we have missed out on any great Illustrator tutorials that you tend to turn to for enhancing your skills.

The Tutorials

Create a Burning, Vector Match Using Gradient Meshes
In this tutorial you will learn how to generate pragmatic vector fire, via the Gradient Mesh Tool and Screen Blending mode. Not as difficult a tutorial as you might think. Let’s strike a match!

How to Make a Classic Air Mail Envelope with Adobe Illustrator
In this tutorial Ryan shows us how to create a classic air mail envelope in Adobe Illustrator, using simple shapes, effects, and gradients.

How to Create a Vector Snake Using Adobe Illustrator CS5 and Mesh Tormentor
In this tutorial we will find out how to create a vector snake using the Mesh Tormentor – a free Gradient Mesh plugin, which will make your work with the gradient mesh easy and pleasurable.

How to Create a Vector Radiator Artwork
In this detailed tutorial you will use 3D-rendering, blends, as well as other tools and techniques for creating an oil filled, vector radiator. The skills you will learn here can easily be transferred to other creations and projects. So let’s get started!

How to Illustrate a Tomato Using Adobe Illustrator
You will employ meshes, gradients and blends for producing the resulted picture. The techniques learned in this tutorial will come in handy far beyond this creation alone. So let’s get started!

Basics of the Mesh Tool in Illustrator
In this tutorial we’re going to find out about Illustrator’s mesh tool. We’re going to build a Super Mario-style mushroom so as to better comprehend how to use this tool by means of a real life example.

How to Draw a Vector, Music Folder Icon
Here, you can learn how to draw a music folder icon in Illustrator. In this tutorial, you will learn how to use the 3D revolve tool and extrude & bevel effects. They are put into use all through the complete workflow, starting from shaping a 3D folder by means of a single path and finishing with all the bright lustrous musical notes.

How To Design a Print Ready Die-Cut Business Card
Want a new set of business cards? Follow this step by step tutorial to learn how to produce a cool business card design in Adobe Illustrator.

How to Illustrate a Vector Kitchen Pot
In this thorough tutorial you will study how to illustrate a standard, everyday household utensil, a cooking pot.

How to Create Advertising Billboard Using Adobe Illustrator
Create an advertising billboard by means of 3D modeling and a small amount of other simple techniques; for example shape building with the pathfinder palette, defining the vanishing point by means of using the guides, filling an object through gradients and using the blend tool.

Creating a Realistic Curtain
In this tutorial, you will learn to create realistic looking illustrations with the mesh tool. You can use this to create an interesting damask style curtain as it shows you how to give the piece the illusion of the silk accompanied by a nice floral design.

How to Turn a Photo into Vector Artwork
In this Adobe Illustrator tutorial, we’ll construct a vector illustration of a high-heeled shoe by tracing a reference photo using the pen tool.

Create a Steel, Vector Power Button Set
This tutorial will walk you through creating a set of steel looking power buttons in simple easy to follow steps.

Create a Cute Robot Using Adobe Illustrator
There are several reasons why Adobe Illustrator is an exceptional application for producing icons. The same components can be applied as building blocks to ensure uniformity and expedite your workflow. This tutorial is filled with a variety of techniques, from fundamental shape-building to more intricate lighting effects.

How to Make an iOS Style Mobile Navigation Bar
This tutorial will teach you how to recreate the navigation bar of an iOS mobile device complete with icons. This plain, easy to follow tutorial is great for a novice to intermediate level user. Let’s get started!

How To Create a Cubist Style Logo Design in Illustrator
Create a cubist-esque design perfect for logos using Illustrator and learn how you can incorporate lots of detailed vector facets in it. This tutorial explains the whole process of logo designing right from the initial sketches to finishing off the final design.

Create a Detailed Toilet Plunger Illustration
In the following tutorial you will employ essential shape building techniques, together with advanced Illustrator tools, to create the best plunger artwork you’ve ever made. By using these techniques you’ll become skilled at making several household tools to boot.

Create a Simple Vector Ninja Character in Illustrator
In order to create your very own set of awesome vector ninjas, you can follow this simple Illustrator tutorial. You will learn how to make the designs from basic shapes by using Illustrator’s core tools.

How to Create a Simple Web Button Set Using the Appearance Panel
In the following tutorial you will learn how to generate your own set of web buttons using Adobe Illustrator that can come in handy for any of your web design projects. Let’s get started!

Make a Fun Holiday Reindeer Illustration
This tutorial covers illustration style, color choice, shading and touches on typography. The procedure of adapting your illustration throughout the creation is also covered. This tutorial is created by Jesse Hora and Darrin Higgins.

Easy Clock Icon in Illustrator
A very simple and easy to follow tutorial to show you how to create this slick looking clock icon in AI. This tutorial is perfect for the beginners as well as for the pros.

How to Create an Open Book with Illustrator’s 3D Extrude & Bevel Tool
In this tutorial, we’ll generate open pages with graphics and put in a crimped background. The book can be personalized by employing your own graphics to the pages.

How to Create a Watercolor Background Using Adobe Illustrator
In this tutorial, we will make a watercolor painted styled background by means of a gradient mesh, tools of deformation and blending modes. The techniques covered here permit the creation of intricate textural backgrounds in an easy and effective way.

Create Super Mario’s Head in Illustrator
In this tutorial the artist explains how to craft a Super Mario face using mostly plain and easy to create shapes.

Create a Garden Scene Using Brushes in Illustrator
Become skilled at how to create a magnificent garden scene in Illustrator. You’ll explore the depth of the appearance panel, and art and scatter brushes in this tutorial.

Magnifying Glass Tutorial for Adobe Illustrator
In this tutorial we will be learning how to create a simple magnifying glass in perspective with Illustrator. This process uses the pen tool and a few ellipses.

Create a Wireframe Face with the Envelope Distort Tool
In this comprehensive and methodical tutorial you will learn step-by-step how to produce a wireframe face in Illustrator using the envelope distort tool.

How to Cell Shade and Add Texture to a Vector Comic Character
This tutorial will demonstrate how to produce a cell shaded character in Adobe Illustrator. This is a quick technique applying the live paint bucket used for block coloring, the gradient tool to add depth and form, and masked blended shapes for texture.

Create a Vector Gift Box for Upcoming Christmas
Here we will be creating an eye-catching gift box in Adobe Illustrator. We are going to apply a few standard types of tools, for example, the rectangle tool, ellipse tool, extrude & bevel 3D effect and some pleasant colors to help us in this creation.

Create a Magical Vector Landscape Using Illustrator
In this extremely detailed and magical tutorial you will learn how to produce a fantasy landscape by means of some of Illustrator’s powerful tools.

How to Create a Vector Stamp Set in Illustrator
In the subsequent tutorial you will learn how to craft your very own set of vintage styled stamps with AI. Go through creating the stamp border, emphasizing the edges, generating the branding, and providing the vector postage stamp a vintage texture, to help complete the effect.

How To Create a Cute Hairy Vector Monster Character
Follow this step by step Illustrator tutorial to generate an attractive vector monster character. We’ll generate the character from fundamental shapes to furnish a cute and forthcoming appearance then we’ll bring the character to life with gradient colors and a meticulous fur effect.

How To Create a Gruesome Zombie Illustration
Follow this step by step Adobe Illustrator tutorial to craft a hand-drawn zombie illustration. We’ll make use of a photograph as a critical reference then bring into play our Wacom tablet together with Illustrator’s vector brush tools to put together a range of gruesome components on our zombie character.

Create a Macbook Pro Illustration Leftside View
In the following tutorial you will gain knowledge that will teach you how to generate a semi-realistic looking MacBook Pro illustration. This is the left side view of the product.

Create a Simple Penguin Character
In the following tutorial the artist will demonstrate how to generate a plain little penguin character. The twenty-seven comprehensive steps will set up the fundamental tools and shape building techniques needed. Once you’ve created the starting paths, you will insert some basic colors and effects. At last, you will learn some fundamental stuff about the blending techniques.

A Complete Guide to Drawing Evil Vector Skulls in Illustrator
This tutorial will teach you how to pencil in evil looking skulls with ease, as well as learn a little anatomy along the way.

Create a Cocktail Glass in Adobe Illustrator
In this very comprehensive tutorial we will learn how to produce a cocktail glass with a multi-colored drink and fancy ornamentation. Producing a glass object can be a challenge seeing as there are only few colors you’re allowed to employ, frequently white, light blue and light gray.

Create a Sale Tag Icon with Adobe Illustrator
In this tutorial, we will be learning how to produce a smart looking sale tag in Adobe Illustrator. This tutorial will show you how to reproduce the look of a folded corner of the paper by using plain color gradients.

How to Create a Rainbow Beetle Using Adobe Illustrator
Here you will learn how to use some basics like the gradient tool, gradient mesh tool, art and scatter brushes, blend tool, and many other techniques to create a rainbow beetle.

How to Create a 3D Chart Using the Perspective Grid Tool and Adobe Illustrator CS5
The perspective grid is not extensively employed by designers. It’s a moderately powerful tool, although not truly a suitable one. Let’s learn how to make use of it on this simple example of the construction of a three dimensional chart.

How to Create an Illustration of Stylish Club Shades Using Adobe Illustrator
In this tutorial we will learn how to create club shades via simple and wide-ranging techniques. To create dramatic reflections from the lights of the discotheque club, we will make use of different blending modes. The tutorial contains lots of professional tips and techniques.

Create Vector Whiskey on the Rocks Using Adobe Illustrator CS5
In this complete and handy tutorial you will learn how to craft a vector glass of whiskey on the rocks by means of Adobe Illustrator CS5.

Make a Worm in Illustrator
In this throwback tutorial the artist demonstrates some quick tips on how to make an effortless but efficient vector illustration inspired by the classic video game, Worms.

Create a 50s Ad Poster in Illustrator
This tutorial will teach you how to make a retro looking poster for a web designer that gives off the impression that it was crafted in the 50’s.

(rb)

Noupe

  

Adobe Illustrator has an amazing feature that allows us create many realistic illustrations. Today we will have the opportunity to practice with the Mesh Tool once again. We will use it to create an interesting damask curtain. The Mesh Tool will help us to create the illusion of the silk look of the curtain with a nice floral design. You can use this simple technique to create similar illustrations (a waving flag, for example).

So, let’s get started on this new Adobe Illustrator tutorial.

The final result should look something like this.

Creating the Floral Pattern

There are numerous patterns you can create to apply to the curtain. We will make a nice and interesting floral design. Creating the floral design is actually very simple. The only thing you have to pay attention to is creating smooth paths and symmetrical shapes. We will be using the Pen Tool (P), Ellipse Tool (L), Blend Tool and some other very useful Adobe Illustrator features. First we will prepare a few brushes that we’ll apply to some simple shapes.

Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create a circle.

Duplicate it (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) and place it as it’s shown on the picture below (hold the Shift key on the keyboard for straight dragging).

With the Ellipse Tool (L) create an ellipse and place it in the middle.

Select all the elements and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Unite button. It will unite all the elements into one shape.

Create another circle and place it as shown in the picture below.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the red circle and move it to the right. Make sure to align the elements properly. Under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button.

Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) again from the Tool Panel and create a small circle. With the Direct Selection Tool (A) grab the lower anchor point and drag it downwards (hold the Shift key on the keyboard to ensure straight dragging).

Drag and drop the shape we have just created to the Brush Panel. The New Brush window will pop up. Make sure to check the Art Brush box.

In the Art Brush Options window make sure to set the Colorization Method to Tint. It will allow you to change the color of the brush directly, without expanding the objects.

This way we have created the brush that we will use a little bit later.

Now, grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create the path as pictured.

Set the Stroke to 5pt.

Now we are going to turn the path into an editable shape. This is going to allow us to adjust the positions of some anchor points. Under Object select Expand. Grab the Direct Selection Tool (A) from the Tool Panel and try to adjust the shape as it’s shown.

This is also one of the shapes we will use a little bit later.

Now, let’s create a small leaf. To do that we will be using the Ellipse Tool (L). Create a circle (hold the Shift key on the keyboard for the proper circle). With the Direct Selection Tool (A) select the upper anchor point and drag it upwards (Shift for straight dragging).  With the Convert Anchor Point Tool (Shift + C) turn the top of the shape into the sharp corner.

Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create the shape shown below.

Select both shapes and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button.

For the next floral element we will use the Pen Tool (P). Draw the path as it is shown on the picture below.

Set the Stroke to 5 pt and expand the path under Object > Expand.

With the Direct Selection Tool (A) adjust the positions of the anchor points and the angle of their handles. Try to create something like this.

There are numerous shapes we can create this way. Just use your imagination and make sure to create smooth shapes.

Let’s put our elements together and try to create a nice looking floral pattern.

Grab the Arc Tool from the Tool Panel and create the arc as shown in the picture below.

Reflect the arc by using the reflecting feature under Object > Transform > Reflect. Set the Axis to Vertical and hit the OK button.

Make two more copies (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) of the arc and place them like they are below.

With all arcs selected, choose the brush from the Brush Panel that we made earlier. You should end up with something like this.

Continue arranging the shapes we have already made.

Each time we add a new shape to our illustration we will use Reflection to create a mirror image in order to create a symmetrical illustration. In the same time make sure to align all of the elements to be centered.

Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create a circle . With the Add Anchor Point Tool (+) add one anchor point like we’ve done below.

With the Direct Selection Tool (A) select the new anchor point and remove it by hitting the Delete key on the keyboard.

Remove the Fill color and apply the brush we have made earlier.

Place the new shape as it shown on the picture below.

You can also add three flowers to make this part more interesting.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the curved path with the brush and scale it down little bit.

Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) one more time and create a circle.

With the Pen Tool (P) create a path as you can see done on the picture below.

Select the circle and the red path and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Divide button. Ungroup the (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) divided circle and remove one part by hitting the Delete key on the keyboard. Place the new shape as it shown on the picture below.

Select the new elements on the right side of the floral design and under Object select Transform > Reflect. Set the Axis to Vertical and hit the OK button. Place the copies on the left side.

Using techniques from previous steps create new elements.

Let’s create one more interesting detail for our floral design. Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create a small circle. Duplicate it (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F), scale it down and move it to the right.

Select both circles and under Object select Blend > Make. To set the number of the circles that are going to appear between these two circles under the Blend Tool set the Spacing to Specified Steps and the value to 15. It will create 15 circles in the middle.

Now we are going to use the Arc Tool again. Create the arc, select it within our line of descending circles and under the Object select Blend > Replace Spine. It will arrange the circles to follow the path of the arc.

Using the same technique, create a few more interesting details and complete our floral design.

Creating the Curtain

Now when we have our floral design ready and set, we can move on and create the illustration of a fancy curtain.

First of all we are going to grab the Rectangle Tool (M) from the Tool Panel and to create an arbitrary rectangle.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the rectangle and lock the layer with the original rectangle. We are locking it to make sure not to distort it during our creation process.

Now grab the Mesh Tool (U) and make sure to add new anchor points to the rectangle by clicking exactly on the edge of the rectangle.

Keep applying new anchor points randomly.

Now we are going to apply different tones of gray color to the anchor points. Select the Direct Selection Tool (A) from the Tool Panel and by selecting each individual anchor point apply the gray color. Just make sure to apply the same tone of the gray color to the opposite anchor points.

With the Direct Selection Tool (A) try to adjust the angle of the handles of each anchor point. Just feel free to play around until you create smooth folded parts of the curtain.

When you are satisfied with the result unlock the layer we locked earlier and set the Fill color of the rectangle to #8DC63F. Now we are going to change the Blend Mode of the layer with the Mesh to Hard Light. This will change the color of the curtain to a nice green. Feel free to try out other Blending Modes until you achieve a nice result.

At this moment we will add the floral pattern we created earlier.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the floral shape we made earlier and place it as shown on the picture below.

Don’t forget to align the shape by using Vertical Align Center. Select both shapes and under Object select Blend > Make. It will create a few more floral elements in the middle. To set the exact number of the floral elements we need to bring up the Blending Options box. To do that go to Object > Blend > Blend Options. Set the Spacing to Specified Steps and the value to 3.

Turn the result into an editable shape by selecting Object > Expand.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the row of floral elements and place them as they are below.

Repeat the previous step. To make sure to create equal distance between the rows select all the elements and under the Align Panel hit the Vertical Distribute Space.

Group (Ctrl / Cmd + G) all the elements and place them on the top of the curtain we already created.

Make sure to set the Fill color of the floral elements to #58595B and under the Transparency Panel set the Blending Mode to Overlay. Feel free to try out a combination of Fill colors (make sure to use a gray color, just change the tone) and different type of Blending Modes. You should end up with something similar to this.

Select all the elements we have created so far and Group them (Ctrl / Cmd + G). Grab the Rectangle Tool (M) from the Tool Panel and create the rectangle.

Remove the Fill color and the Stroke color of the rectangle. Select all the elements and under Object select Clipping Mask > Make. It will hide all the elements outside the new rectangle.

This is actually the final result of our vector illustration.

Feel free to use different colors, shapes and angles. The results can be very interesting.

Conclusion

Today we had the opportunity to use the Mesh Tool for creating a 3D illusion for the curtain in vector format. As you can see we didn’t experiment with lots of colors. The most important thing is to find the right balance between different tones of gray color. Blending Mode will do the rest. There are numerous textures you can create. Just be creative. If you happen to have any questions or comments please post them in the comment section below. It would be nice to see your achievements as well. I hope you like this tutorial. Feel free to visit other Mesh Tool tutorials: Create a Halloween Ghost with Mesh Tool and Christmas Greeting Card for more practice. Thank you for following along.

(rb)

Noupe

  

Business icons are one of the most poplar vector illustrations. As with all vectors in general, business icons are scalable which makes them perfect for use in web design. The best way to create an icon is to use one of the vector based programs, such as Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw, etc. We are going to create an interesting business icon that consists of two arrows and a globe in this Adobe Illustrator tutorial. The techniques we are going to describe is applicable for creation other kinds of illustrations as well.

So, let’s get down to business.

This is what we will be creating.

Creating the Globe

Before we create the globe we need to prepare a grid of parallels and meridians. It means we have to prepare the symbol that we’ll apply to the globe. The Blend Tool will help us do that.

Grab the Line Tool (/) from the Tool Panel and create a vertical line. Now, select Add Anchor Point Tool (+) and add an anchor point exactly in the middle of the line.

Select the Direct Selection Tool (A) from the Tool Panel, grab that anchor point and drag it to the left (don’t forget to hold the Shift key on the keyboard for straight dragging).

This way we have created a sharp corner. We need to smooth it out. Grab the Convert Anchor Point Tool (Shift + C) from the Tool Panel, click on the anchor point and to drag it downwards (Shift for straight dragging).

Select the path and under Object select Transform > Reflect. Set the Axis to Vertical and hit the Copy button. It will create a mirror image of our path. Move the new path to the right (Shift for straight dragging).

Select both paths and under Object select Blend > Make. It will create more paths in the middle. To specify the exact number of the paths open Blend Options (Object > Blend > Blend Options). We’ll set the value for the Specified Steps to 17.

Grab the Line Tool (/) from the Tool Panel and create a horizontal line (Shift for straight dragging), as shown on the picture below.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the line and place it as pictured.

Select both horizontal lines and under the Object select Blend > Make. Set the value for Specified Steps to 9.

Select all the elements we’ve created so far and Group them (Ctrl / Cmd + G). Grab the group of elements and drag it to the Symbol Panel. Symbol Options window will pop up. Set the name to Grid, make sure to set the Type to Graphic and hit the OK button.

Now we have created a symbol which we’ll use to apply to our globe.

Creating the Globe

First of all, we have to create a circle. Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create a circle (don’t forget to hold the Shift key on the keyboard for the proper circle).

With the Direct Selection Tool (A) select the anchor on the left side and hit the Delete key on the keyboard to remove it. You should end up with something like this.

Under Effect select 3D > Revolve.

Under the 3D Revolve Options box make sure to set the Surface to Diffuse Shading and then hit the Map Art button. This is the where we are going to apply the symbol we created to our sphere.

In the Symbol drop down Menu select the symbol of the grid we have already made. Make sure to hit Scale to Fit button. It will apply the grid symbol properly.

You should end up with something like this.

Now we need to apply some nice color gradients. To be able to do that, first we have to turn our object into editable shapes. Under Object select Expand Appearance. Then we need to Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl/ Cmd + G) the object. Be ready to repeat that action a few times, until you “separate” the sphere from the grid. When you achieve that select the sphere (you’ll notice that it contains many concentric circles) and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Unite button. This will turn the circles into a single one.

Set the Fill color for the grid to #61D4E0.

We are going to apply a nice blue radial gradient to the circle. It will turn our circle into a nice blue sphere.

There is one more thing we should add to the globe. Select the Rectangle Tool (M) from the Tool Panel and create the ellipse. Set its Fill color to white (#FFFFFF) and place it as it shown on the picture below.

Set the Opacity of the new ellipse to 26%.

Our globe is ready for some nice arrows. Before we create them don’t forget to Group (Ctrl / Cmd + G) all the elements of the globe together.

Creating the Arrows

To create nice 3D arrows we will be using 3D effect Revolve. It will help us to fold the arrow around the globe. So, lets get started. First we will create the shape of the arrow.

Grab the Rectangle Tool (M) and create a rectangle, as it’s shown on the picture below.

Now, grab the Star Tool from the Tool Panel and click on the Artboard. The Star Options window will pop up. Set the value for Points to 3 and hit the OK button.

It will create a triangle. Rotate it and place it as it show on the picture below. Align the shapes by using Vertical Align Center under the Align Panel.

When you are satisfied with the result under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Unite button. It will turn both shapes into the arrow shape.

Drag the arrow to the Symbol Panel and name it Arrow. Set the Type to Graphic. This way we are creating the symbol of the arrow which we’ll be using later.

Now, grab the Rectangle Tool (M) from the Tool Panel and create a rectangle, as pictured.

Under the Effects select 3D > Revolve. Check the Preview box in order to be able to see what are we doing. Under the Revolve Options box click on the Map Art button.

You will notice that the cylinder contains three sides. Upper ellipse, lower ellipse and the lateral side of the cylinder. Switch between sides, and when you select the lateral side of cylinder select the arrow in the drop down menu for Symbol. Also, make sure to check Invisible Geometry. It will remove the cylinder shape and only the arrow will be visible.

Feel free to play with the size and the rotation of the arrow, until you reach the right angle and position.

When you reach a desirable result hit the OK button. We can also change the rotation of the invisible cylinder in order to find the best position for our arrow by rotating the cube in the 3D Revolve Options box.

Now we have to turn our arrow into an editable shape. Select the shape with the arrow and under Object hit Expand Appearance. You should end up with something like this.

Lets Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the new shape (we’ll have to do it more than once) and remove everything besides the arrow. This is what we should have by now (blue color is changed to be able to see the result clearly).

Take a good look at the arrow. See if there are any unnecessary anchor points and remove them.

Now we have to turn the arrow into a 3D shape. Select both parts of the arrow and duplicate them (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F). Using the arrow keys on the keyboard nudge the copies a few pixels to the right and then downwards. You should end up with something like this.

We have to connect some shapes now. Grab the Add Anchor Point Tool (+) from the Tool Panel and add few anchor points.

With the Direct Selection Tool (A) grab the new anchor point and move it to the lower corner of the green shape.

Repeat this step for the other corners of the arrow as well.

To be able to create a glossy arrow with lots of reflected parts, we’ll have to divide some parts of the arrow. Select the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create the path as it’s shown in the picture. We will use the path to divide the red part of the arrow. Just select them both (red shape and the green path) and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Divide button. It will split the red shape exactly in half. Don’t forget to Ungroup it (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G).

And, now our arrow is ready to get some nice colors.

Applying the Color Gradients

In this part of the tutorial we will try to achieve a nice glossy look for the arrow.

To start we will apply some nice linear gradients.

Use a radial gradient for lateral side.

We can also divide the inner part of the arrow. Just create another path using the Pen Tool (P) and divide the inner side of the arrow. Apply a nice radial gradient to both sides.

We can also make some additional shapes that will help us to create the glossy look of the arrow. Select the right upper side of the arrow and under Object select Path > Offset Path. Set the value for Offset to -3 and hit the OK button.

With the Direct Selection Tool (A) move the upper side of the new shape. Just select the upper anchor points and move them upwards, as shown below.

Apply a nice linear gradient to the new shape.

We can do the same thing with the left side of the arrow. You should end up with something like this.

In order to create more light reflections we will divide some other parts of the arrow as well. Grab the Line Tool (/) from the Tool Panel and create a few random lines.

Use each of the lines to divide the surface underneath the line. Just select the line and the shape you want to divide and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Divide button.

Apply a green radial gradient to the new shape, just make sure to create a sharp transition, just as it’s shown in the pictures below.

Repeat this step for the other shapes as well. It will create nice light reflections.

Some nice edge highlights will give our illustration a real glossy look.

The Final Touch

Now we will combine our globe with the arrows. To be able to set the two arrows in the right place we will have to learn to draw a Clipping Mask. A Clipping Mask is actually a random shape without the Fill and Stroke colors which allows us to hide some parts of the illustration.

Let’s get down to business.

Place the arrow on the top of the globe (as pictured). Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the arrow and send the copy behind the globe (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + [). You should end up with something like this.

Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and draw a shape similar to this.

When you are drawing the shape for the Clipping Mask keep in mind what parts of the arrows needs to be visible (everything inside the path will remain visible). Also make sure to follow the shape of the globe in order to avoid overlapping the globe and the part of the arrow that needs to be behind it.

When you are satisfied with the shape of the Clipping Mask remove the Stroke color, select the globe and the arrow and under the right click select Make Clipping Mask.

This action will hide all parts of the arrow outside the Clipping Mask. This way we have created the illusion that the arrow is "sitting" on the globe.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the green arrow behind the globe, Bring it to the Front (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + ]) and change the color to red. Using the Reflection feature under Object > Transform > Reflect flip the arrow upside down by using reflection on a Horizontal and Vertical axis. You should end up with something like this.

Repeat the steps for creating the Clipping Mask and you should get something like this.

Feel free to create a few more shadows and some sparks…

…and we are done!

The Conclusion

Glad that you went through the entire tutorial. It will help you to create a really interesting web icon that can be used for different kinds of purposes (business, environment, communication, etc). Using this technique you can actually do other kinds of illustrations as well.

Just feel free to be creative and to explore the other possibilities. Hope you like this tutorial. Thank you for following along.

(rb)

Noupe

  

Over the years, Adobe Illustrator has become one of the top applications for creating vector illustrations. There is almost nothing you can’t make in Illustrator. It is a powerful tool for creating vectors for all kind of logos, websites, icons, business cards, print materials, etc. One of the best features of the vector format is its ability to scale up or down to any size without any loss in quality (unlike raster illustrations).

But let’s not forget that Adobe Illustrator is complex software. Despite all of its advantages, Illustrator demands a lot of skill, work, time and patience. The software will not generate effects automatically; excellent effects are the result of trying and testing different settings. Trial and error is an effective method in achieving the desired result. Creating realistic vector illustrations in Adobe Illustrator can be fun, but it can also give you a headache if you can tell something’s missing from an illustration but don’t know how to get it.

Here is a list of things to consider when creating stunning vector illustrations:

• Perspective,
• Smooth lines,
• Colors,
• Edge highlights,
• Reflections,
• Shadows.

Stick To Perspective

When it comes to drawing realistic vector illustrations, perspective is paramount in importance. If you ignore perspective, the illustration will look flat and distorted and lack depth.

The most important aspects of perspective are size and distance. The farther away an object is, the smaller it will appear, and vice versa. By increasing and decreasing size in this way, you can achieve good depth in your illustrations.

There are a several methods of drawing perspective.

Perspective Grid

One very useful way is to use a perspective grid, which is a new feature in Illustrator CS5. Establishing a horizon and the vanishing point is part of this. The perspective grid in Illustrator is an editable tool, so it can be adapted to suit one’s purpose. You can change the perspective simply by dragging the corner nodes of the grid. You can make the vanishing point longer or shorter and change the number of boxes in the grid. Being able to adapt the working environment to your needs will make it easy for you to do advanced drawings.

Extrude and Bevel

Some people have trouble seeing and presenting perspective in the first place. In this case, I would recommend “Extrude and Bevel,” which is a convenient tool for creating 3-D objects. You can set a value for “Perspective” in the “Extrude and Bevel” options box (either type in a value or drag the slider over). Expanding an object will make it editable. Because the Extrude and Bevel effect gives you an object with many parts and anchor points, it is highly recommended that you use that object as the reference for tracing with the Pen tool (P). This way, you’ll create clean and simple vector illustrations without any unwanted parts or any anchor points that are an obstacle in the printing process.

If you have imagination and some skill, you will be able to draw an illustration based on an estimation of perspective. Of course, this method is not quite precise.

But adding perspective alone is obviously not enough to create stunning artwork.

Using The Pen Tool For Smoother Lines

Creating shapes in Illustrator shouldn’t be complicated. To draw paths and curves, either use the Pen tool (P) or simply combine objects with Pathfinder features such as “Unite,” “Minus Front,” “Subtract,” “Intersect,” etc. Because the paths contain numerous anchor points, you will have to adjust them to create smooth lines. Anchor points are highly editable and can be adjusted with a few excellent tools. You can change the position of the path just by editing one anchor point. This takes a lot of practice; you’ll need a steady hand and patience.

Live tracing is one effective way to create vector illustrations. Try to complete a drawing with as few anchor points as possible; avoid adding anchor points at shorter intervals just to maintain the smoothness. To get smooth lines, make sure that the handle of the anchor point forms a tangent on the curve (i.e. inner or outer tangent). You can always add or remove anchor points by going to the “Add Anchor Point” (+) and “Delete Anchor Point” tools (-).

“Convert Anchor Point” (Shift + C) allows you to make changes on the anchor points themselves. With this amazing tool, you will be able to change the angle of the handle, thus enabling you to change the path of the lines. Whereas adjusting just one side of the handle will result in an angular shape.

Coloring

This part of the creative process is quite fun, but still demanding. Choosing the right colors can be a challenge. First, you have to determine what style you want. Gentle and pastel colors might work for retro illustrations, which would be rather simple and two-dimensional.

If you want to get photo-realistic, you might want more vivid colors. Good contrast can make the artwork stunning. If you don’t know how to mix and match colors, Adobe has a great website with color swatches and beautiful combinations.

There is also a swatch library in Adobe Illustrator, where you can find a lot of useful swatches and even create your own and save for future projects.

Gradients

When it comes to coloring, applying linear and radial gradients is the best way to show light sources and to give depth to your artwork. Establishing the position and angle of the light source is the first step in the coloring process. Shadows and highlights should be added according to the source of the light. Dark colors will simulate shadows and shade, while light colors will create highlights.

Besides creating shadows and highlights, gradients are the great way to simulate shape. Using color, you can give volume to an object or character. Use as many colors as you’d like to build a gradient, but just blend them well; otherwise, you’ll end up with harsh color transitions. If you tend to blend colors effectively, then try out the different “Blending Modes,” such as “Multiply,” “Overlay,” “Screen” and “Light.”

Linear gradients are mostly used to present a plane. Radial gradients are suited to ovals and round shapes.

Transitions between colors in gradients can be smooth or sharp. Smooth transitions are convenient for representing shade, shapes and forms. Sharp transitions are good for simulating gold, steel, chrome and other metals (i.e. for representing the reflection of light on these metals).

Gradient Mesh Tool

Because gradients are limited to linear and radial shapes, we sometimes have to find ways to use gradients in unconventional ways. Creating a gradient for an irregular shape is complex, because it involves blending colors between uneven forms with the use of linear and radial gradients. This can be a lot of work, but the Gradient Mesh tool is handy for this purpose.

The Gradient Mesh tool is a powerful tool that enables you to split up any part of an object by adding editable points and applying solid colors to those points. This way, you are able to create a gradient that follows the actual shape of the illustration.

While gradients make illustrations more realistic, there is always room for improvement. A great illustration is made up of many well-integrated details. Mixing and matching colors and shapes is not easy, but it does lead to a beautiful result.

Highlighting The Edges

When you are done with the gradients, your illustration should be ready for some nice edges. There are a few ways to create them. If your illustration has straight edges, the best way to highlight them is with the Pen tool (P). This enables you to create simple shapes that can be blended (via gradients) with the rest of the illustration. Or you can create a sharp white edge and turn it into the reflection using a low-opacity setting. Either way, you will be emphasizing the shape of the object.

Creating a highlight for curves is not much different. The most important thing is to make the shape of the highlight follow the shape of the object. The Pathfinder panel has a lot of features for creating curved highlights; doing it with the Pen tool alone would be tricky.

Reflections

Besides edge highlights and shade, light sources can create many reflections and shadows. Take a good look around you and you’ll see all kinds of reflections: on glass, plastic, wood, metal, clay, even in liquid. Reflections come in various forms. The most important thing, again, is to follow the shape of the object. For those skilled with the Pen tool, curved highlights shouldn’t be a problem. If you are unsure how to draw highlights with the Pen tool, try combining different shapes in the Pathfinder panel.

Even though the most common color for reflections is white, with reduced opacity, try out different color combinations.

Highlights are useful for showing off the material of an object. With a careful color combination and reflections in the right places, you can simulate the look of a surface quite well. The result is a nice illustration with a glossy surface.

The Final Touch: Shadows

The main purpose of a shadow is to create an illusion of three-dimensionality. Without shadows, the illustration is not really complete. The shadow “defines” the illustration in a way. Like reflections, shadows are created by the influence of light sources. The intensity or softness of the shadow depends on the distance between the object and the light source. A light source above an object will cover almost the entire object. Uncovered parts of the object will cast shadows on surfaces below and on objects nearby.

You can create a shadow with a solid color (for a sharp shadow) or with a linear or radial gradient (for a soft shadow).

If your object is complex, the best way to create a shadow that follows the entire shape of the object is to use the Blending tool.

There is one rule about the Blending tool, and that is to create two objects or paths with the exact same number of anchor points. This way, you ensure that every anchor point on one object (or path) has a corresponding anchor point on the other object (or path). The result will be a shadow with nice color transition.

Summary

Although there are just six rules to follow, there is the danger of too much detail. Try not to exaggerate the details, or else the illustration could look messy and overcrowded.

Light is your greatest ally. It will lead you through the whole creation process, connecting the different parts of the illustration and making them come alive.

Just keep the illustration simple and clean to minimize mistakes.

(al)(rb)

Noupe

  

Today’s Adobe Illustrator tutorial will walk you through creating a nice greeting card for the upcoming Christmas holiday. In order to create nice, colorful presents to stuff a Christmas sock we will combine different kinds of tools, such as; the Pen Tool, Mesh Tool, Ellipse Tool and the Rectangle Tool.

Besides that we will have the opportunity to mix and match some vivid colors and gradients in order to create a catchy illustration to suit our needs. We will have a great fun exploring some nice techniques during the creation process. So, get ready to create a nice Christmas illustration.

This is how the final product will look.

Creating the Sock

For the basic shape of the Christmas sock we will be using a Pen Tool (P). Grab it from the Tool Panel and try to draw the shape of a distorted sock. Don’t forget, the sock looks little bit distorted because it is full of presents. Feel free to experiment with the shape, trying to achieve the look like there is actually something inside the sock.

To achieve the look of a distorted Christmas sock full of presents we will be using a Mesh Tool. It will allow us to play around with the shape of the sock by creating interesting shadows and highlights.

Grab the Mesh Tool (U) and start adding the anchor points. You don’t have to add all anchor points at once. After applying the colors you’ll be able to see the illustration more clearly and to decide whether to add or remove some anchor points. All anchor points are editable. You can change their positions and the length of the paths between anchor points. While you are doing this think about all the fabric wrinkles you are intending to create.

After adding all the anchor points grab the Direct Selection Tool (A) from the Tool Panel and adjust the position of the anchor points and the angle of their handles. This way you’ll be able to change the position of the paths, which will affect the spreading of the colors which we’ve applied to a particular anchor point.

On the following pictures you can monitor applying colors process.

The animation below is showing the rest of the coloring process.

Feel free to adjust the position of all the anchor points after applying colors, if needed.

Creating the Upper Part of the Christmas Sock

Now we will try to create the fluffy upper part of the Christmas sock. To do that we will use the Arc Tool.

Grab the Arc Tool from the Tool Panel and click somewhere on the Artboard. In the Arc Segment Tool Options box just hit the Ok button (don’t change anything).

Set the Stroke color to white #FFFFFF and make sure to create many copies of the path. Move them around to form the fluffy part of the sock. You should end up with something like this.

Place the fluffy part we have just created on the top of the sock.

Creating the Presents

In this part of tutorial we will create the elements to ‘fill’ the Christmas sock with. First we will create the Christmas ball.

For the basic shape of the Christmas ball we will be using the Ellipse Tool (L). Holding the Shift key on the keyboard create a circle.

Let’s apply a nice radial gradient to our circle. Feel free to use any color combination you like. We will use a nice purple gradient.

Grab the Rectangle Tool (M) from the Tool Panel and create a rectangle as it is shown in the picture below. Use the same radial gradient we have used in the previous step.

We will need to use the Rectangle Tool (M) one more time for the top of the Christmas ball. Create another rectangle, a bit larger, but make sure to make the upper part of the rectangle a bit curvy. To achieve that just grab the Direct Selection Tool (A) from the Tool Panel and pull the handles of the endpoints upwards, as it is shown in the picture below. This will create a nice curvy side of the rectangle.

Now grab the Ellipse Tool (L) again and create a circle. Holding the Alt / Option key on the keyboard click on the circle and drag it to the right. It will create a copy of the circle. Don’t forget to hold the Shift key on the keyboard for the straight dragging. Repeat this step four more times.

In order to create an equal distance between the circles select them all and under the Align Panel hit the Horizontal Distribute Space. You should end up with something like this.

Select the blue shape and one of the circles and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button. Repeat this step with the rest of the red circles.

You should end up with something like this.

Now, grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create another circle. Remove the Fill color and set the Stroke color to any color you like. Set the stroke to 4pt.

Let’s apply some nice golden gradients to the upper part of the Christmas ball . This will give our ball a fancy look. But first we have to turn the red circle into an editable path. Select the red circle and under Object select Expand and send the ring to the back (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + [). This way we will hide the lower part of the ring we actually don’t need.

In the following pictures you will find the information about applying a golden, linear gradient.

For the handle of the Christmas ball use the same linear gradient, just move gradient more to the left (to do that, select the Gradient Tool (G) from the Tool Panel and after applying the gradient grab the slider and move it to the left).

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the handle twice and nudge one of the copies 1 pixel down and to the left. Select both copies and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button (just make sure that the nudged copy is below the copy we didn’t move).

You should end up with something like this.

Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the new shape and delete the lower part. Under the Gradient Panel make sure to click on the Reverse Gradient in order to change the color order inside the gradient.

This way we’ve created a depth for the handle. Just make sure to place the new shape behind the golden handle. You should end up with something like this.

Now we have to do something with the part of the Christmas ball between the actual ball and the upper part. You will all agree that it shouldn’t be left like that.

One of the things we might do is to hide it with a nice blue bow. There are many different ways to create a nice bow. Just use your imagination and try to be creative.

Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and draw the shapes as shown below.

These are the basic shapes we will need. With some nice gradients and additional shapes we will create a nice blue bow that will help us complete our Christmas ball.

Use the radial gradient for the knot. We will try to emphasize the upper part of the knot with the light blue color.

Use the same radial gradient for the inner part of the bow as well.

Select all the elements besides the knot, and under Object select Transform > Reflect. Set the Axis to Vertical and hit the Copy button. Scale down the copied elements a bit and adjust the angle and the position, just like in the picture below.

Now we have to add some details in order to make the bow more interesting.

First, we will create a thickness for the fabric. For each part of the bow use the same technique.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the shape twice that you want to give some thickness. Nudge one of the copies 1 pixel (downwards, upwards, right or left, depends on the position of the shape). Select both copies and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button. In the picture below you can see the improvement we have achieved with this technique.

There is one more thing we can do. We can create some nice yellowish stripes which can make our bow even more interesting.

Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create a curved paths as is done in the picture below.

It might look a little bit confusing like this but in the next few steps we will make it more clear.

First we need to turn the paths into editable shapes. To do that, select them all and under Object select Expand.

Now we need to crop them. Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the blue shape underneath the red stripe. Select the copy we have just made and the red stripe and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Intersect button.

Repeat this step for the other red stripes as well. You should end up with something like this.

And now we will apply a nice linear gradient to our stripes.

Repeat this step to complete the other stripes as well. Use the same gradient, just make sure to match the highlighted part of the stripe with the rest of the bow. Group (Ctrl / Cmd + G) all elements of the bow.

Place the bow on the Christmas ball, just make sure to hide the flaw the best you can.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the bow. Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the copy and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Unite button.

Set the Fill color of the new shape to #4C0230, rotate a bit, move around and make sure to place it underneath the actual bow.

Select the basic shape of the Christmas ball and duplicate it (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F). Select the copy we have just made and the purple shape of the bow and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Intersect button. It will create the shape of a shadow that the bow is casting on the Christmas ball.

Creating a Candy Cane

Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create a circle. Remove the Fill color and set the Stroke color to any color you like.

With the Direct Selection Tool (A), select the bottom Anchor point and hit the delete key on your keyboard. You should end up with something like this.

Now select the Line Segment Tool (/) and draw a vertical line. Select both objects and in the Align Panel hit Horizontal Align Right.

Hit the up arrow on the keyboard until the vertical lines meet the arc. With the Direct Selection Tool (A) select the end points of both paths and under the right click select Join.

Now we need to set the thickness of the candy cane. Set the Stroke to 50 pt and under the Stroke Panel hit the Round Cap button. It will make the endpoints of the Candy Cane round.

Under Object select Expand in order to turn the Candy Cane into an editable shape. You should end up with something like this.

Creating the Stripes

This part of the creation process is quite simple. All we have to do is to create white and red stripes and to make sure to make them look as though they curve around the Candy Cane.

Grab the Arc Tool and click somewhere on the Artboard. It will bring up a dialog box like this.

Do not change the settings in the Arc Segment Tool Option box and hit the OK button. It will create an arc. Rotate it and place it as it shown in the picture below.

Holding the Alt / Option key on the keyboard click on the arc and drag it upwards (don’t forget to hold the Shift key on the keyboard for the straight dragging). Feel free to rotate some of the arcs if needed. Repeat this step until you get something like this.

Select all the elements and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Divide button. It will divide our Candy Cane into the small segments whose colors we’ll change to white and red.

Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the candy cane and get ready to apply some nice linear and radial gradients.

Applying Color Gradients to the Candy Cane

We will try to achieve a semi-realistic look by using some very nice color gradients. The most important thing is to highlight the middle part of the Candy cane. This way we will simulate the oval look of the cane.  For curved parts of the candy cane we will be using a radial gradient.

To the white parts of the candy cane we will apply a gray – white – gray linear gradient.

Apply the same gradient to the other white parts of the candy cane as well. For the curved part use a radial gradient with the exact same colors.

You should end up with something like this.

Let’s do the same thing for the red parts of the candy cane. Apply a red linear gradient for the straight parts of the candy cane, and a red radial gradient for the curved parts.

Our candy cane is done. We can add a small detail like a colorful bow to make it look more interesting.

Next Stop: Mistletoe

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a little mistletoe. This is the reason why we will include it in our illustration. The creation process is quite simple, all we have to do is create a few berries and some nice green leaves.

Let’s start with the leaves. For the shape of the leaf we will be using the Pen Tool (P). Try to draw the shape as shown below.

Remove the Stroke color and apply a nice green linear gradient.

Let’s “divide” the leaf. Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create a small circle. With the Direct Selection Tool (A) select the lower anchor point of the circle, and holding the Shift key on the keyboard drag that anchor point downwards (we are holding the Shift key for the straight dragging). In order to create a sharp corner, grab the Convert Anchor Point Tool (Shift + C) from the Tool Panel and click one the lower anchor point.

Grab the shape we have just created and drag it to the Brush Panel. In the New Brush dialog box select Art Brush and hit OK.

Make sure to set the Colorization Method to Tints. This way we’ll be able to change the color of the brush without expanding the brush.

Now we have created a brush that we’ll apply to some paths. Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create few paths, just like it’s shown in the picture below.

Now apply the brush, that we have created in the previous step, to each individual path. Adjust the position of the anchor points, adjust the stroke if needed and set the Stroke color to #8DC63F.

Select the shape of the mistletoe and under Object select Path > Offset Path. Set the value for Offset to -4.

Select the middle path we created in the previous step and duplicate it (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F). Grab the Direct Selection Tool (A) from the Tool Panel and move the end points as it is in the picture below. This way we’ve created a path that will help us divide the smaller shape of the mistletoe.

Select the new path and the smaller shape of the mistletoe and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Divide button. It will divide our shape in half.

Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the new shape and apply some nice color gradients to the right side of the mistletoe.

We will use the left part to create a smaller shape. Select it and under Object hit Path > Offset Path. Set the value for Offset to -4.

Delete the larger part of the left side and apply the color gradient.

Select all elements of the mistletoe leaf and Group them (Ctrl / Cmd + G). Grab the Rotate Tool (R) from the Tool Panel and holding the Alt / Option key on the keyboard click underneath the leaf. Set the value for Angle to 120 degrees and hit the Copy button.

To create another leaf rotated for another 120 degrees simply hit the shortcut on the keyboard Ctrl / Cmd + D.

As far as the mistletoe leaves are concerned we are done. Now we have to create some berries.

Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create a circle (hold the Shift key on the keyboard to create a circle). Apply a red radial gradient.

With the Ellipse Tool (L) create two ellipses and apply darker radial gradients, like it is shown in the image below.

Group (Ctrl / Cmd + G) all the elements of the berry, create three copies of the berry and place them on the leaves. Scale down some of the leaves and berries and rearrange them until you reach a desirable result.

Now Group (Ctrl / Cmd + G) all of our elements for the Christmas sock (Christmas ball, candy cane and the mistletoe) and place it “in” the sock. Adjust the position and the angle of the elements as needed.

With a nice floral background and some additional details and shadows you can turn your illustration into a nice Christmas greeting card. Voila!

Conclusion

As you can see, the creation of the Christmas greeting card can be great fun. Christmas is an amazing holiday characterized by many wonderful motives and elements. There are numerous things you may create; snowflakes, gingerbread, presents, snowmen, etc. The creation of these elements require the use of different kinds of techniques, but all together you are making a catchy illustration which can be used for many different purposes.

This time we’ve had the opportunity to practice again with the Mesh Tool. For more practice feel free to visit the Halloween ghost tutorial where you can find some additional information regarding this useful technique. It may seem that the Mesh Tool is complicated to use, but actually it’s not. Even when the illustration is finished it is possible to make minor or major changes in order to make improvements.

If you happen to have any questions feel free to post them in the comment section below. Hope you like the tutorial. Thank you for following along.

(rb)

Noupe

  

Holidays are arriving. One of the most necessary things for gift wrapping is the ribbon. Today we will be learning how to create a vector illustration of a beautiful red ribbon in Adobe Illustrator. All you need is the Pen Tool, 3D effect Extrude & Bevel and a good taste in color selection. This could be a nice practice for less skilled Pen Tool users.

This is what we will be creating.

Creating the Bow

We will start with the Pen Tool (P). Select it from the Tool Panel and create a shape as it is shown in the picture below. We will use this shape to complete the inner part of the bow.

With the Pen Tool (P) still selected draw another shape.

Make sure to match the sides of both the shapes.

Under Object select Path > Offset Path. Set the value for Offset to -2 pt.

This is the basic shape of the bow. To complete it we need to apply some nice gradients.

Gradients

For the inner part of the bow we will be using a radial gradient.

For the outer part of the bow we will be using a linear gradient. Make sure to use the right angle when you are applying linear gradient.

You can notice how we’ve used the lighter colors to emphasize the influence of the light and to simulate the silk look of the ribbon.

Shadow

If you take a look at the inner part of the bow you will notice that we’ve simulated a soft shadow that is caused by upper part of the bow. Besides this soft shadow we will create a sharp one as well.

Duplicate (Ctrl + C, Ctrl + F) the small shape that represents the inner part of the bow. Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create an ellipse as it shown in the picture below.

Select both shapes and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button. Set the color of the new shape to #7E0022.

Select all the elements we have created so far and Group them (Ctrl / Cmd + G). Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) this group and move it upwards. Rotate it a little bit as well in order to place it in the right spot.

Although our illustration looks nice like this we will make a few changes. We are all aware how difficult it is to tie a bow with symmetrical sides. This is the reason why we are going to distort the copy we have just made. First of all remove the sharp shadow on the inner side of the bow. Remove the smaller part of the inner side of the bow as well. You should end up with something like  this.

Select the Direct Selection Tool (A) from the Tool Panel and start to move around anchor points until you get something you like. This is one of the possible results.

We need to create two things in order to complete this part of the bow. One of them is the inner part of the bow. Select the pink shape and under the Object select Path > Offset Path. Set the value for the Offset to -2 pt. Don’t forget to apply the same radial gradient we’ve used in the previous step to complete the lower part of the bow.

Repeat one of the previous steps where we’ve explained how to create a sharp edge. You should end up with something like this.

We need one more shadow. Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create the shape as it shown on the picture below.

Set the Fill color of the new shape to #BF144A and place the shadow under the upper part of the ribbon.

We have to make sure to adjust the shape of the shadow to cast properly on the lower part of the ribbon. Our shadow crosses the border of the lower part of the bow. To fix, this duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the pink shape of the lower part of the bow. Select the shadow and the copy we have just made and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button. Just make sure to bring the copy of the pink shape to the Front. This way you’ll be able to create a nice form of the shadow.

Place the shadow underneath the upper part of the bow.

This way we have created one side of the bow. Let’s create the mirror image for the right side.

Select all the elements and Group them (Ctrl / Cmd + G). Under the Object select Transform > Reflect. Set the Axis to Vertical and hit the Copy button. Drag the copy we have just created to the right. Don’t forget to hold the Shift key on the keyboard for straight dragging.

You should end up with something like this.

Creating the Knot

We need a midpoint for the ribbon. This mean we need to create the knot. For this part of the illustration we will need the Pen Tool (P) again.

There are various shapes of the knot you can create. Feel free to be creative. Select the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create the shape as it shown on the picture below.

After you are done adjusting the shape of the knot apply a nice radial gradient as it is shown below.

For the knot we have to create the same thickness as we did for the bow. Select the shape of the knot and duplicate it (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F), set the Fill color of the copy to some other color (just to make sure that we are editing the right shape) and send it behind the actual shape of the knot (Ctrl / Cmd+[). Grab the Direct Selection Tool (A) and move the anchor points around a bit, as it is shown in the picture below.

Set the Fill color of the new shape to #F5A2C5.

You should end up with something like this.

Completing the Ribbon

Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create the path as it shown on the picture below.

Under Effect select Extrude & Bevel.

These are the settings we have used in this tutorial. Feel free to play with settings until you reach a desired look.

Under Object select Expand Appearance in order to turn the path into an editable shape.

Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the red shape (since the shape contains many parts we will have to ungroup it several times) and prepare a nice linear gradient for the ribbon.

You can get more information about gradient use on the following pictures. Don’t forget to use lighter colors to emphasize the influence of the light and dark colors for the shadows.

Set the Fill color of the thickness to #F5A2C5.

Using the same technique complete the left side of the ribbon. Make a small color adjustment if needed, and we are done!

Conclusion

Today we have learned how to create a neat ribbon for gift wrapping. It includes a few very simple techniques such as drawing with the Pen Tool, using the right angle to apply gradients and some adjustments within 3D effects Extrude & Bevel. The main thing about this tutorial is to chose the right colors for your artwork. Ribbons and bows can be very colorful as well. Feel free to experiment and you might end up with some interesting results.

Hope you like this tutorial as well. Thank you for following along!

(rb)

Noupe

  

In this tutorial we will be learning how to create a Magnifying glass in perspective in Adobe Illustrator. When it comes to creating semi-realistic vector illustrations the most important items are to find the easiest way to create them, make sure to create reliability and to try to keep from creating objects with too many anchor points in order to avoid an obstacle in the printing process.

In this tutorial we wont use some of the amazing Illustrator features within the 3D Effect. Using them would make the creation process much easier for sure, but on the other hand there are a few disadvantages we would like to avoid (creating numerous anchor points as previously mentioned). We will try to create a magnifying glass just with the Pen Tool (P) and a few ellipses. Some details will helps us to improve the illustration.

Let’s get down to business!

We will be creating this.

Creating the Head of the Magnifying Glass

Since we are creating a magnifying glass in perspective we will start with the ellipse. Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) and create the ellipse as it is shown in the picture below.

Grab the Selection Tool (V) and rotate this ellipse.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the ellipse and move the copy to the left.

With the Direct Selection Tool (A) select the anchor point on the right side. Hit the Delete key on the keyboard to remove it. Make sure to match end points of the curved path and the red ellipse.

Now we have to close the path. Select the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel to close the path. Send the new shape behind the ellipse (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + [).

Select the ellipse and under the Object select Path > Offset Path. Set the value for Offset to -5 pt.

Repeat the previous step and offset the smaller ellipse for another -5 pt. Grab the Selection Tool (V) and move the smallest ellipse to the left lower corner, as it shown on the picture below.

Applying a Color Gradients

Now, it is time to apply some nice color gradients. We have to simulate the look of the metal frame and the look of the magnifying glass. On the following pictures you can see the information about color gradients you can use.

As you can see, a nice color contrast has contributed to the semi-realistic look of the metal frame.

To make the illustration more authentic there is one thing we should not forget, the metal part of the framework that can be seen through the glass.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the glass twice and move one of the copies to the left. Select both ellipses and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button.

You should end up with the shape like this.

Apply a linear gradient as it shown on the picture below. The gradient we are using for this part is actually the same gradient we have used for the inner part of the frame. We have adjusted the colors inside the gradient by giving them a nice bluish tone.

Two highlighted edges will improve the illustration. Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the ellipse twice that represents the inner part of the metal frame. Move one of the copies to the left 1 pixel. Select both copies under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button. Set the Fill color of the highlight to #FFFDE5.

We will create another highlight for the outer side of the metal frame.

Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create a small circle. Apply a radial white-transparent gradient.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the circle from the previous step and place it on the right part of the metal frame. It will emphasize the metal look of the frame a little bit.

Group (Ctrl / Cmd + G) all the elements.

Creating the Handle

Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create the shape of the handle.

Apply the linear gradient to the handle. Just make sure to create the highlight that will follow the shape of the handle.

Select the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create two curved paths as it's shown on the picture below.

Select the handle and both paths and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Divide button.

Apply the linear gradient, but make sure to create the same highlight we have created for the handle.

Use the same technique to create one more metal part of the handle.

And our magnifying glass is done. To make the illustration more interesting we will create a nice bit of additional text.

Creating Magnified Text

Let's try to create a magnification effect. You can do it with any shape you like, but we will do it with text.

Grab the Type Tool (T) from the Tool Panel and type a word (we've used Noupe). You can choose any Font you like.

We will have to edit the letters a little bit. To be able to do that we have to transform them into editable shapes. Under the right click menu select Create Outlines.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the letters and Ungroup the copy (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G). Remove N and O from the copied word. Change the Fill color of the original letters to green (just to be able to see what we are doing, later we will set the Fill color back to black).

Select all three black letters (u, p and e), scale them up a little bit and move them to the right.

Under the Object select Envelope Distort > Make with Warp.

The Warp Options box will pop up. Set the Style to Fisheye  and the value for Bend to 25%. Hit the OK button.

If you are not quite happy with the result you have achieved, feel free to grab the Direct Selection Tool (A) and to adjust some anchor points. Under the Object select Expand. This way we will turn the letters back into an editable shape.

Now we have to duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the ellipse that represents the glass. Bring it to front (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + ]) and remove the Stroke and Fill colors. Select the ellipse and U, P, E letters and under the Object select Clipping Mask > Make.

Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the green letters and remove the p and e letters at the end of the word. Set the Fill color for the rest of the letters to black (#000000) and send them back (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + [).

For the end duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the black shape of the handle, apply a nice linear gradient (#FFFFFF to # BDBDBD) and place it as it shown in the picture below.

And our magnifying glass is done!

Conclusion

This tutorial can be a nice practice for creating objects in perspective. If you are unsure how to put all the elements together, feel free to use a reference image (tracing technique can help a lot in this situation). There is one more thing I would like to encourage you about. Take your time when you are applying color gradients. Instead of using Blending Modes and transparency try to simulate a certain look by using the right combination of colors and gradients (just like we did in this tutorial with the part of the metal frame seen through the glass).

If you have any comments or questions please post them in the comments section below. Really hope you like this tutorial. Thank you for following along.

(rb)

Noupe

  

Today we will be creating a design fit for any number of St. Patrick’s Day uses. In this tutorial you will find useful information on how to create a pile of golden coins and a Pilgrim hat. There is one very convenient way to create a hat in Adobe Illustrator. It includes 3D effect Revolve. Revolve is a very handy tool which will create 3D objects in just a few steps. However, it has one flaw. It creates too many anchor points that can be an obstacle in the printing process. We will try to avoid that and to create our illustration with simple tools, such as the Pen Tool (P), Ellipse Tool (L) and Rectangle Tool (M).

So let’s get this started!

This is what we will be creating.

Creating the Hat

Let’s break the creation process into a few parts. First, we’ll create the Crown. So, grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create the shape as it is shown in the picture below.

As you can see, the right side of the shape is a little bit longer than the left side. Besides that, the new shape looks a little bit deformed. The reason for drawing a shape like this is the perspective. When you are using 3D effects you don’t have to think about perspective. Software will think about that and perspective will be included automatically. Sometimes, drawing the illustration manually can be tricky. You have to be aware of the existence of the perspective, which will give your illustration a realistic look. This is something we should keep in mind.

Next part of the hat is the Brim. Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) and create one larger ellipse for the Brim,

and, one smaller one for the top of the hat.

This is the basic shape of the hat. Select all the elements and rotate the hat as it shown on the picture below.

We will apply a radial gradient to the top of the hat.

Creating Details

You’ll probably agree that the Brim is too thin. Let’s create the thickness.

Select the larger ellipse and duplicate it (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F). Nudge the copy downwards for 2 - 3 pixels. Feel free to adjust the anchor points until you make a perfect match.

Apply the linear gradient as it’s shown on the picture below.

Let’s create some edge highlights.

Duplicate the smaller ellipse on the top of the hat twice (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F). Nudge one of the copies upwards, select both copies and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button.

Set the Fill color to #939598.

Repeat the previous step for the larger ellipse.

Creating a Hatband

It is time to create a ribbon with a buckle. This is the final detail that will complete our hat construction.

Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create a shape as it is shown below.

Make sure to create the bold sides of the ribbon. This way it looks like the ribbon is going around the Crown.

Apply a nice linear gradient. Make sure to create a small highlight on the left side of the ribbon, as a result of the influence of light.

We have to create an edge for the ribbon as well. It will give the illustration a certain depth.

Duplicate the green ribbon (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) twice. Nudge one of the copies downwards for 1 pixel. Select both of the copies and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button.

You will end up with something like this.

We have to adjust the new shape a little bit. There are some anchor points that spoil the shape we have just created. Just grab the Delete Anchor Points Tool (-) and remove the excess anchor points.

With the Direct Selection Tool (A) adjust the handler of the anchor points to perfect the shape.

A linear gradient will help us to emphasize the thickness of the ribbon.

For creating the buckle we will need the Rounded Rectangle Tool. Create a rounded rectangle like below.

Under the Object select Path > Offset Path. Set the value for the Offset to -20.

As you can see, we have created a smaller rectangle with sharp corners, but we need a rectangle with rounded corners. Under the Effect select Stylize > Round Corners. Set the value for Radius to 10 pt.

In order to be able to use the new rounded rectangle we have to expand the shape (Object > Expand Appearance).

Select both rectangles and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button. You should end up with something like this.

This is the basic shape of the buckle. Let’s do some adjustment for creating the necessary depth.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the pink shape and change the color to blue (for easier manipulation). Nudge the copy downwards for 1 -2 pixels.

Let’s apply nice linear gradients.

To make it more realistic we will create nice edge highlights, just like we did for the hat.

Select the front shape of the buckle, duplicate it twice (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) and nudge one of the copies for 1 pixel downwards and for 1 pixel to the right. Select both copies we have just created and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Minus Front button. Set the Fill color of the highlight to #FFF9AE.

Group (Ctrl / Cmd + G) all the elements, rotate the buckle and place it on the hat.

A small shadow that the buckle is casting on the ribbon will benefit the semi-realistic look we are trying to achieve.

Just duplicate the buckle (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F), Ungroup it (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Unite button.

Make sure to place the new shape underneath the buckle and nudge it for few pixels to the right.

Duplicate the green ribbon (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F). Select both new shapes and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Intersect button.

Set the Fill color of the new shape to #0D350E.

With some light reflections our hat is complete.

Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and create a shape like the one shown in the picture…

…and apply a linear gradient.

Do the same for the brim.

Creating the Golden Coins 

It is time to make a “fortune”. We will create a shiny pile of coins.

Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create an ellipse.

Holding the Alt / Opt key on the keyboard click on the ellipse and drag it upwards (don’t forget to hold the Shift key for straight dragging). This way we are making a copy of the ellipse.

Grab the Rectangle Tool (M) from the Tool Panel and create a rectangle as it shown on the picture below.

Make sure to match endpoints properly.

When you are done adjusting the position of the anchor points, select the red rectangle and the blue ellipse and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Unite button. It will convert these two shapes into one.

Bring to front (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + ]) the green ellipse and start to apply some nice gradients.

Select the ellipse and under Object select Path > Offset Path. Set the value for Offset to -1.5 pt.

Apply a linear gradient.

Duplicate (Ctrl /Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the smaller ellipse. Grab the the left middle point of the selection box and move it just a little bit to the right side (so-calling non-uniform scale). Apply a linear gradient to this ellipse too.

Group (Ctrl / Cmd + G) all the elements. Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the coin many times and place the copies in a big pile.

Place the hat on the top of the pile, as shown.

Apply a green radial gradient to the background.

As you can see, something is missing. We can’t leave the illustration like this. It looks like the hat and the coins are floating in the air. Some shadows will fix that.

We will have to create a shadow for each coin.

Choose one coin and duplicate it (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F). Ungroup the copy (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Unite button. Set the Fill color of the new shape to #10340D. Send it behind the coin (Ctrl / Cmd + [) and rotate to look as it shown on the picture below.

Repeat the previous step for each coin that is touching the surface.

We have to create a shadow for the hat as well. Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) and create an ellipse like pictured. Make it sure to set the hat on the top of the ellipse. This way you’ll be able to find the right angle and position for the new shadow.

Select the pile of coins and duplicate it (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F). Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the copy we have just made and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Unite button. You should end up with something like this.

Select the white ellipse and the pink shape and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Intersect button. Set the Fill color to #FF4200 and lower the Opacity to 30%.

For the other part of the shadow we will once again need the Pen Tool (P). Create a shape as it’s shown on the picture below. Set the Fill color to #1A3219.

We will create a tiny border in order to give the illustration a postcard feel. Select the background and under the Object select Path > Offset Path. Set the value for Offset to -10. Remove the Fill color and set the Stroke to 5 pt.

Under Object hit the Expand button. It will turn the closed path into the editable path. Apply a linear gradient like the one below.

And…voila! Our illustration is finished.

Conclusion

There are many ways to realize a good idea, but sometimes it is not that simple to choose the right technique to create a great looking illustration. Adobe Illustrator is not the type of software which will automatically generate the effect based on given instructions. Most of the things you have to plan well, to find a way to create the illusion of something that actually does not exist. It includes turning flat shapes into a 3D illustration just by using the right color gradients or a wised placed shadow. With a creative idea and the right technique a good result will be guaranteed.

Thank you for following along.

(rb)

Noupe

  

Use of the Mesh Tool is one of the best techniques for achieving a semi-realistic look for an illustration. Today we will demonstrate how to use this great Adobe Illustrator feature for creating a cute little ghost. The only colors we are going to use are white and different shades of gray. So, It might be little tricky to transform this floating bedding into the cute little ghost. We will have to find a way to create the illusion of the wrinkled sheet. The Mesh Tool will help us a lot to achieve that.

Our final result should look like this:

So, let’s get down to business!

Creating the Ghost’s Body

First, we will create the shape of the ghost. There are two methods to do that. If you have a tablet you can draw it very easily. If not, the Pen Tool (P) is always available. Select it from the Tool Panel and draw the curvy path, something  similar to this:

We will need to divide this shape. This will actually create the inner side of the floating bedding. With the Pen Tool (P) create a curve which we’ll use to divide the large shape.

Select the path and the blue shape and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Divide button.

Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the shape we have just created and change the Fill color of the lower part. This way we have the idea what our ghost should look like.

At this moment we are pretty much done with the shape of the ghost.

When it comes to coloring we will try to keep it simple, by using gray colors from the Swatch Panel.

Time for the Mesh Tool

We have to realize that creating gradients for irregular shapes is not that simple. The Mesh Tool (U) will help us to do that. We will have to “divide” the blue shape in order to define some highlights and shadows. During the dividing process we will create new anchor points and paths. For each anchor point we will have to define the Fill color. This will create nice transitions between colors. Some transitions will be smooth and some very sharp, depending on what we are trying to achieve.

Grab the Mesh Tool (U) and click on the blue shape. It will create paths with anchor points as is shown on the picture below.

On the following pictures you can keep track of creating the new anchor points.

These are some of the possible anchor points. Later on we will create some more. First, we will apply some colors in order to monitor our creating process, just to make sure that we are going to right direction.

To assign the colors to the anchor points grab the Direct Selection Tool (A) from the Tool Panel, select each individual anchor point and select the color from the Swatch Panel. You may think that this is a lot of work, but at the end it will pay off.

Continue with applying colors.

Continue applying colors. Feel free to experiment and to try out different combinations.

Larger Preview

You should end up with something like this (or maybe with something even better):

You may notice that we have a shadow on the right side of the sheet. Left side is slightly highlighted (like the light is coming from upper left corner). Besides that, there is some roughness caused by the light source. We have managed to represent all of that by using the Mesh Tool (U).

Creating the Fabric Wrinkles

Now, we have to create some fabric wrinkles. Fabric wrinkles tell us a lot about the position of the body. Gravity is something we should keep in mind as well. It dictates how our bed sheet will behave.

Grab the Add Anchor Point Tool (+) from the Tool Panel and add few anchor points on the right ‘shoulder’ of our ghost. With the Direct Selection Tool (A) try to raise new anchor points and to adjust the handlers in order to form a smooth corner.

Before

After

Do the same for the left lower part of the linen.

Before

After

You should end up with something like this.

As you can see on the previous picture, our wrinkles don’t quite give the illusion that there is something going on, yet. We have to find a way to avoid a flat look for the illustration and to create an illusion of 3D. The Mesh Tool (U) will help us again. There is just one thing you should keep in mind. With the Mesh Tool (U) we are defining gradients between two anchor points. It’s up to us to make the color transition as smooth as possible.

Grab the Mesh Tool (U) from the Tool Panel and apply a few more anchor points. Add anchor points like you can see on the picture below.

In order to create a realistic wrinkle we will assign light gray colors to some of the anchor points.

On the pictures below you can see the information about color applying.

We will do the same thing for the right shoulder. Just make sure to add important anchor points. Each wrinkle has a highlighted part and a shadow. We will try to represent the influence of the light, which will allow us to create an illusion of a 3D look.

Let’s apply some colors, like we did in previous steps.

During our creation process we’ve created a few anchor points and paths we didn’t need at first, but now we can use them.

With alternate combinations of light gray and dark gray colors we are achieving the impression of a wrinkled sheet.

On the pictures below you can find more information about color details.

This is how our ghost looks right now.

Let’s improve our ghost a little bit more. We have some curves in the lower area, but it doesn’t look realistic. To make it properly we’ll have to highlight some parts.

If we take a look, the network of the paths and the anchor points in that field looks like this.

Let’s make some minor changes. Just grab the Mesh Tool (U) and add a new anchor point. We will apply a nice light gray color in order to create a highlight.

This has created a highlight for the raised part of the sheet. But we will need some shadows as well. Apply a slightly darker gray color, as is shown on the pictures below.

There is one more thing we can do. Let’s focus one the raised part of the bedding. We could add a small part of the inner side of the sheet and make it visible.

Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and draw the shape as you can see on the picture below.

Make sure to match the lower side of the new shape and the lower edge of the sheet. It’s supposed to be lined up.

Duplicate (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) the red shape of the ghost. Select both shapes, green and the copy we have just created and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Intersect button. It will create a shape like this.

Let’s make it fit into the illustration. Apply the radial gradient as you can see on the picture below.

Select the lower part of the illustration (the part that actually represents the inside of the sheet) and set the Fill color to #F1F2F2.

Under the Object select Path > Offset Path. Set the value for Offset to -2. Apply the radial gradient as is shown on the picture below.

Creating the Eyes

Since we are creating a cute ghost we will create big confused eyes to make it more interesting.

Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create the ellipse. Duplicate it (Ctrl / Cmd + C, Ctrl / Cmd + F) and holding a Shift key on the keyboard move it to the right side. Make sure to scale down the copy.

Select both ellipses and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Unite button. It will turn our ellipses into one shape. Under the Object select Path > Offset Path. Set the value for Offset to -2.

Let’s apply some colors. Set the Fill color of the larger shape to #BCBEC0 and apply the radial gradient to the smaller shape. This way we are creating an illusion that someone is really under the sheet.

With the Ellipse Tool (L) create two circles, one bigger and one smaller. Set the Fill color to #414042.

Select both of them and under Object select Path > Offset. Set the value for Offset to -3. Change the Fill color to black (#000000).

We need just two white ellipses for the reflection. Select all eye elements and Group them (Ctrl / Cmd + G).

With minor adjustments and some polishing our cute ghost is done!

The Final Word

Some graphic artists are using the Mesh Tool in combination with a reference image. The image is helping a lot. This way you have a preview of the object you are creating. You are able to follow all the paths, shapes, highlights and shadows. If you don’t have a reference image you can always make a quick sketch or a complete drawing to use as a guide.

In this Illustrator tutorial we did it just with help of our imagination. The main purpose of this tutorial was to demonstrate how the Mesh Tool can be very useful in creating irregular gradients. As you could see, all paths and anchor points are quite editable (you can change the number, position and the angle of anchor points) so there is not much room for making mistakes. I encourage you to try this technique by creating different kinds of illustrations, and, do not hesitate to post your results.

Hope you like our little ghost. Thank you for following along.

(rb)

Noupe