This content originally appeared on Envato Tuts+ Tutorials and was authored by Jonathan Lam
In this tutorial, you'll learn how to use the gradient tool in Illustrator to add custom gradients to your vector artwork and designs.
Are you looking for a quick video tutorial to learn everything about the gradient tool in Illustrator? The Envato Tuts+ YouTube channel has you covered:
What You'll Need in This Gradient Tool Illustrator Tutorial
To follow along with this tutorial on how to use the gradient tool in Illustrator, you'll need your own version of Adobe Illustrator. We'll also be using stock images from Envato Elements to help us, but feel free to use your own illustration too! Click on the link below to download it.
1. How to Use the Gradient Tool in Illustrator
Step 1
Select the Gradient Tool (G) from the left toolbar.
Step 2
With the Gradient Tool selected, click on the shape object you want to apply the gradient to.
Step 3
This will apply a default gradient to the object. You'll also notice that the Gradient Annotator is applied across the shape. We'll be using the Gradient Annotator to adjust the look of the gradient to our liking.
Step 4
Double-click on the Colour Stop to change the starting and ending colour of the gradient.
Step 5
You can also add more colour stops to the gradient bar by clicking on it. Move the colour stop along the bar to change its position.
Step 6
You can also angle the gradient by rotating the Gradient Annotator. To do this, hover the mouse cursor over the end point until it changes into the rotation icon. Then simply click and drag to rotate.
2. How to Use the Gradient Tool in Illustrator on Text
Step 1
In this section, we'll learn how to use the Gradient Tool on text. If you try to use the Gradient Tool on text, you'll see that at first it doesn't work as expected. This is because we can only apply flat colours to text.
Step 2
In order to apply a gradient to the text, we must first outline the font. To do this, right-click on the text and select Create Outlines (Shift-Control-O).
Step 3
Now you can use the Gradient Tool. However, you'll find that it applies the gradient to each individual letter.
Step 4
If you want to apply the gradient across all the letters, go to Object > Compound Path > Make. Now the gradient will appear across all the letters.
Awesome! You're Finished!
Congratulations! And that's how to how to use the Illustrator Gradient Tool to apply and adjust the look of your colours and gradients. I hope you found this tutorial helpful and that you've learned some new tips and tricks that you can use for your own projects. See you next time!
Top 5 Gradient Templates From Envato Elements
Want to add some Gradient Tool Illustrator techniques to your projects, but short on time? Then head on over to Envato Elements, where you can download many different illustration and designs that you can use. Here are five of my favourites.
Wolf Gradient Logo (AI, EPS, JPG, PNG)
Here's the graphic template we used for the tutorial above. This unique and colourful wolf logo will really make your brand stand out! This vector illustration is easily customisable and well organised so that you can use the elements for your own projects and designs. Gradients are easily editable with the use of the Gradient Tool in Illustrator.
Gradient Transparent Business Card Mockup (PSD)
If you're looking for some ready-made gradient colours for your business card designs and mockups, look no further! Use this gradient template to create your business card quickly and easily within minutes. Easily editable with a 3000 x 2000 resolution in 300 dpi.
Mythology Gradient Colorful Logo (AI, EPS, PDF, PNG, PSD)
Here's another colourful gradient logo that you can use for your branding projects and designs! This vector based logo is fully editable and scalable without the loss of resolution.
Gradients Pack x10 (AI, EPS, JPG)
Looking for ready made gradients for you to use? Here's a pack which contains a collection of 10 colourful gradients that you can use for your projects and designs. Perfect for your branding projects, illustrations, websites and more!
Grizzly Gradient Logo (AI, EPS, PDF, PNG, PSD)
Here's another colourful animal gradient logo that you can use for your projects and designs! This modern grizzly bear logo is fully editable and easily editable with the use of the gradient tool in Illustrator.
I hope you've enjoyed this tutorial on how to use the gradient tool in Illustrator. If you'd like to learn more cool Illustrator skills, we've got more tutorials for you:
This content originally appeared on Envato Tuts+ Tutorials and was authored by Jonathan Lam
Jonathan Lam | Sciencx (2022-10-06T11:15:54+00:00) How to Use the Gradient Tool in Illustrator. Retrieved from https://www.scien.cx/2022/10/06/how-to-use-the-gradient-tool-in-illustrator/
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