How to Use The Gradient Tool in Adobe Illustrator

Graphic artists often use design tools to add depth and dimension to their images. Business images and artistic projects can be enhanced by adding gradient features. Gradients add dimension to an object by inserting colors that gradually change in hue intensity. Adobe Illustrator is a computer software product that offers numerous graphic design tools, including a gradient tool, to help make images more appealing. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_O9zpBkqws Learn how to improve your images through this graphic design tutorial.

How to Use The Gradient Tool in Adobe Illustrator Video

Award-winning graphic artist Janee Meadows from Los Angeles presents an Adobe Illustrator tutorial on the gradient tool. She offers a step-by-step guide to applying and customizing a gradient effect on an image. This graphic design tutorial is offered as part of a series of Adobe Illustrator tips on the Mahalo.com YouTube channel.

Step 1: Create an Image

Create or import an image into Adobe Illustrator. This image can be created in another program, scanned into Illustrator from your own drawings or created using shape tools. Consider using a blank rectangle shape when first learning how to apply the gradient tool for simplicity.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_O9zpBkqws

Step 2: Open Gradient Tool

Activate the gradient tool by selecting the tenth icon from the right column in your tool palette. If you prefer a quick key, press the "G" key on your keyboard to open the tool. Pull up your gradient palette for easier customization by selecting the "Window" menu from the top horizontal menu bar, then selecting the "Gradient" option.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_O9zpBkqws

Step 3: Apply Gradient Tool

Click on the object you want to fill with a gradient. Press the gradient fill box in the upper left-hand corner of your gradient palette. Your image will be filled with a gradient and a horizontal line through the middle of the object will appear. The bar features a circle on the left side. Click and slide the white circle along the bar to adjust your gradient shading.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_O9zpBkqws