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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

Getting The Best Out Of A Photo Shop Tutorial

Because of the pace of technology’s evolution, many people have resorted to different tutorials and classes to catch up. Different companies offer these tutorials in order to make their software more user-friendly.

A lot of people today are taking photo shop tutorials because they want to learn how to make their pictures look better. However, you should know that just because you have access to a photo shop tutorial doesn’t make you an expert. A huge part of learning depends on your reception of the tutorial. Here are some things that you should do in order to get the most out of a photo shop tutorial:

How much knowledge you actually get from the photo shop tutorial depends on the attitude that you have. Only a few people actually realize that although you might find it hard to change the actual tutorial, it is quite easy to change your attitude towards it. There are three important points when you should check your attitude with regards to the photo shop tutorial:

Prior – Before the actual photo shop tutorial, you need to make sure that you are prepared to learn. This attitude will enable you to understand the concepts better when they are presented to you. If you reject the lesson even before it has begun then you won’t actually be able to absorb the lessons.

During – During the photo shop tutorial, you might notice a lot of things which do not help in your learning. You might notice something boring, or, if you are actually being taught by another person, you might notice some annoying little bits which distract you from the actual lesson. However, you should realize that you can choose to ignore these distractions and focus on the photo shop tutorial. All you need is to adjust your attitude to one of focus.

After – You might think that once the photo shop tutorial is finished, then you are home free. However, you should realize that you did have a purpose in taking the photo shop tutorial. You learn about photo shop in order to be able to use the program to edit photographs.

This means that the actual application of the lessons you learn during the photo shop tutorial takes place after the lessons. In order to make the most of the photo shop tutorial, you have to trust your training and actually apply it. Without application, the whole photo shop tutorial would just be a waste of time.

Also, you have to realize the fact that learning is a continuous process. This means that you need to be constantly on the lookout for new developments which could affect your usage of photo shop. By looking out for new developments, you will be able to improve your skill with the program.

Of course, finding the right photo shop tutorial is also quite essential. This is because of the fact that a photo shop tutorial should be treated as an investment. You need to profit out of an investment, do you not? Even if the photo shop tutorial were free, you would still be spending time on it. You need that investment to work for you. At the end of a great photo shop tutorial, you should be able to make the program work for you the way that you want it to.

Whats up everyone, This tutorial teaches you how to create simplistic abstract background or wallpapers in Adobe Photoshop CS5/CS4. Its really easy, however looks fantastic. Enjoy!
Video Rating: 0 / 5

Check this video out at Hi-Res here: www.tutvid.com Create these nice little metal buttons that can also be used as icons. Everything we make in this video is 100% vector so it can be used virtually anywhere! Check out www.tutvid.com for more great video tutorials!

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Things To Expect From An Adobe Photo Shop Tutorial

Adobe photo shop tutorials abound in the online world, and with good reason. One question you may ask is this: What should I expect in an Adobe photo shop tutorial? There are great deal of things you can expect to obtain from an Adobe photo shop tutorial, whether they are paid or given out for free. It also depends on what type of Adobe photo shop tutorial you are looking for.

A typical Adobe photo shop tutorial can be classified between beginner topics and advanced user topics. If you are new to Adobe photo shop, most tutorials recommend that you start with the very basic beginner topics before proceeding to the advanced user topics, which is usually more specific and specialized in nature. Beginners often have difficulty in pretty much the same things. Diversification in preferences start to emerge after one has mastered the topics from an Adobe photo shop beginner tutorial.

Specialized topics are usually the nature of the Adobe photo shop tutorial. Unless you want to become an Adobe photo shop tutorial guru, you can usually do away with the majority of the topics and nail down to learning the exact things you want to do with Adobe photoshop. The online Adobe photo shop tutorial gives you this freedom to choose and jump right ahead to your needed concepts if you are already capable of doing so. Although ideally, it is still so much better to build your way up from the bottom and gain mastery over the whole software.

The basic topics of an Adobe photo shop tutorial usually cover the vital functions that make working with Adobe photo shop quick and convenient. This includes the keyboard shortcuts, commands and getting used to the interface and environment of Adobe photo shop. Basic tips and tricks also with the main functions of Adobe photo shop are given out by the experts who facilitate the tutorial.

There are many specialized topics one can learn after mastering the basic functions and commands of Adobe photo shop. One of the things which make Adobe photo shop tutorials so popular is that there is an incessant need to maximize the use of Adobe photo shop software and new ideas keep coming up everyday which requires the use of Adobe photo shop. Most of the images, web design elements and personal photo sharing functions are augmented by Adobe photo shop.

Recreating specific images and themes are usually done by those who have navigated the Adobe software well. Popular logos and specified themes which give websites a desired effect are often marketed in the Adobe photo shop tutorial sites. But if you really want to learn the functionality of the Adobe software and not just merely recreate images, you really have to explicitly seek out the actual concepts which comprise the advanced Adobe photo shop tutorial topics.

Some of the topics considered to be part of the Adobe photo shop tutorial include the usage of font styles and text effects. Text effects vary in as much as there are various needs and styles being used in different websites. The terms aqua, gel text, alien and 3D text effects are just some examples of the different text effects being taught in Adobe photo shop tutorials. Cutting up images, restoring of old photographs, working around with watermarks, and other advanced tips and tricks can also be found in a high quality and substantial Adobe photo shop tutorial.

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