Tutorial Wrap

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  Create a Happy Sun Character

  In the spirit of Blog Action Day and climate change, our friends at Vectips put together a really nice tutorial detailing the steps it would take to create a happy sun character in Illustrator. This tutorial is great for logos, children’s illustrations, as well as other projects.

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  Scale Objects in Adobe Illustrator via Keyboard

  Keyboard shortcuts are a true blessing. Using them effectively can save countless hours in the creative process. This quick tip from the GoMediaZine shows how to scale objects using keyboard shortcuts in Illustrator – a real time-saver!

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  How to Effectively Clean Up a Logo in Illustrator With the Pathfinder Tool

  The pathfinder palette is one of Illustrator’s most powerful tools. Using it effectively can make a huge difference in the quality of your designs and workflow. This tutorial from the Design O’Blog shows how to “clean” a logo in Illustrator using the Pathfinder.

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  Rad Pattern in Illustrator that Makes you Dizzy

  Creating patterns in Illustrator is fun and sometimes challenging. This tutorial from Abduzeedo demonstrates how to create a “dizzying” pattern based from a skateboard graphic.

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  How To: Create a Seamless Diagonal Pattern in Illustrator

  There are several ways to create a seamless diagonal pattern in Illustrator. Some methods work but don’t always leave you with the most flexible result. This tutorial from Bittbox explains how to easily create a seamless diagonal tile in Illustrator.

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  Create a Seamless, Textured, Spade Pattern Using Illustrator and Photoshop

  In another pattern-making tutorial, this tutorial from Colorburned (Me) demonstrates how to create a seamless spade pattern in Illustrator and then how to apply a seamless texture to it using Photoshop.

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(FREE!) Download Picks

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  Free Citrus Vectors

  This time of the year, anything that gets my mind off the cold weather is always nice. These great citrus vectors from Vector Jungle display a wide-range of citrus illustrations and includes slices of lemons, oranges, and limes.

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  Freebies: Foliage Flourishes – Vectors & Brushes

  Everybody loves vector flourishes, right? These really nice vector flourishes from My Ink Blog and Artbox7 are really nice examples of vector swirls and flourishes. They can easily be used to add interest to your designs.

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  Stencil Pack

  Real-life stencils are a lot of fun to play with. These vector stencils are as close to real-life as you can get and are a lot of fun to play with, especially if you try combining them with some really nice spray paint vectors.

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  Halloween Freebies – Pumpkin Patterns

  It may be too late for Halloween vectors but there is always next year to look forward to. These vector pumpkin and jack o’lantern patterns are tons of fun and would make excellent backgrounds for next year’s Halloween designs.

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  Free Vector Seamless Patterns – Retro Set 4

  Our friends at Pattern Head are always churning out cool vector patterns. This set of seamless vector retro patterns are pretty cool. Head over to Pattern Head and check these out. They will make great backgrounds for your next retro design.

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Vector Inspiration

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  30 Superb Examples of Infographic Maps

  As you search the web, you will find that there are a lot of ways to display really cool and creative interactive maps. This round up from Web Designer Depot displays some of the best examples out there.

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  Weekly Vector Inspiration #40

  In another fantastic inspirational post, our friends at Vectips put together a round up of some excellent vector designs. Check out this post if you’re looking for inspiration.

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  Amazing Vectorific Inspiration #1

  There really is no such thing as too much vector inspiration. This terrific post from Vectorific showcases some more excellent examples of vector design.

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  Colorful and Organic Illustrations by Alexander Tyapochkin

  Russian-based illustrator Alexander Tyapochkin’s work is full of life. This post from Abduzeedo showcases some amazing examples of vector art.

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  Von Glitschka – Adobe Illustrator CS4 Guru

  Von Glitschka is a well-know Illustrator master. You probably recognize him from the several tutorials he has written for Vectortuts+. This interview from the GoMediaZine goes a little more in-depth into his background and explains his thoughts and experiences as an illustrator.

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We have numerous tutorial here on Vectortuts+ for you to get started working with Illustrator’s 3D effects, practice those tools through multiple projects, and ultimately master them. Let’s run through these 3D dedicated Illustrator tutorials!

Boxy Illustrator 3D Tutorials

Learning to work with boxy vectors is a great place to start learning Illustrator’s 3D tools. Get a firm grasp in how these tools work with some simple projects and then work towards completing more complex illustrations and designs.

How to Create Your Own Stylized Vector City

This is a simple 3D tutorial, which will help you get started with the 3D Extrude & Bevel Effect. Learn to Map art onto simple 3D rectangles and compose a vector metropolis.

Design Gift Boxes Using Illustrator’s 3D Tools

Learn how to make wrapped and unwrapped gift boxes using Illustrator’s built-in 3D Extrude & Bevel effect. Learn how to make a fully editable 3D ribbon and masked 3D typography.

Turn a Boring Bar Graph into a 3D Masterpiece

In this tutorial, you’ll learn to plot an accurate bar graph using Adobe Illustrator’s Graph Tool. We’ll also render the graph to give it additional visual appeal using Illustrator’s 3D Extrude & Bevel Options. The use of 3D tools here is relatively simple and it’s an interesting subject to compose in 3D.

How to Make Festive Vector Gift Boxes

This tutorial moves at a quick pace. You’ll learn to work with Illustrators 3D tools, Brushes, Gradients, and Blurs together. Learn to add numerous elements after Mapping Art and applying a simple 3D Extrude & Bevel.

Make 3D Yet Flat Looking Shopping Basket Icons

Learn how to create a custom shopping basket icon for your next web design project. This tutorial utilizes 3D tools to ultimately create a complex graphic that has elements that look both flat and three-dimensional.

Rounded Illustrator 3D Tutorials

More basic element to master when working with Illustrators 3D tools are circles and ovals, which are great for composing simple spheres and elementary wheels. With these shapes you can create some interesting designs.

Create a Fantasy Space Background with Illustrator

Work with mapping art, vector 3D, and numerous Illustrator tools to create vector planetary space scene. This is an intermediate level tutorial, though beginners should be able to make their way through it.

Make an Eye-Popping Vector Eyeball

Learn to make an eye-popping vector eyeball with this intermediate Illustrator tutorial. We’ll use numerous Illustrator tools, including 3D tools, to create this illustration.

How to Make a Detailed 3D Vector Tire in Illustrator

In this tutorial, I will show you how to create a vector tire with very easy tools and techniques. The important and trickier part of this tutorial is the tire stripes, but we’ll solve this simply with Illustrators 3D tools, and we’ll give it a great final look.

How to Create a Juicy RSS Feed Icon

Let’s learn how to make a unique RSS feed icon. This tutorial requires a familiarity with Adobe Illustrator’s basic tools as we’ll use the gradient mesh tool and make light use of Illustrators 3D mapping feature.

How to Make Realistic Skate Wheels in Illustrator

Using Illustrator’s 3D Revolve tool, we will create a set of realistic skateboard wheels and map our own artwork on the wheel. Learn advanced techniques, such as using the revolve tool, preparing the artwork, mapping it to the 3D surfaces, and some cool tricks for adding the finishing touches.

Curvy Illustrator 3D Tutorials

Learn to utilize the 3D Revolve Tool and other 3D tools to create complex shapes. You’ll be surprised at the variety of curvy vector graphics you can create after mastering these tools.

How to Create Funky 3D Springs in Illustrator

Many of us have done this before in Auto CAD, 3D Max or Maya. In this tutorial, we will learn how to create 3D springs in Illustrator. We’ll be using the 3D Revolve Tool and some manual effort to obtain this quality vector result.

Create a Checkered 3D Chess Figure Scene

In this tutorial, we’ll explain how to create a 3D chess scene with the help of the 3D Revolve Tool and gradient masks. This is a great introduction to the 3D Tool in Illustrator, and shows you how to pose your creations within an illustrative checkered environment.

How to Create a Caramel Ripple Effect

In this tutorial, we will create a hot chocolate caramel effect using some distort tools and Illustrator’s 3D Revolve Tool. This is a simple and effective technique to obtain a quality vector ripple effect quickly.

How to Create Sheet Rolls with Custom Spirals

In this tutorial, I’ll explain how to make custom spirals (apart from the default spiral tool), and use them creatively in making rolls of paper. So far, I came to know that the spiral tool does not allow a uniform decay (equal spacing) between each wind of a spiral. In this tutorial, I will expose some basic tricks to do so. You’ll use Illustrator’s 3D tools to expand the paper rolls after creating custom spirals.

Create a 3D Push Pin and a Paper Note in Illustrator

In this tutorial, we’ll show the beginning Adobe Illustrator artist how to create a 3D push pin with the 3D Revolve Tool. We’ll learn how to apply highlights and create shadows for a more realistic effect and add a paper note to it.

Typographic Illustrator 3D Tutorials

Using Illustrator’s 3D Tools on Type is a great way to quickly add depth and interest to your vector lettering. Tackle a few simple tutorials to get going with 3D type in Illustrator. And then Vector Plus members can tackle a more challenging subject.

Let’s Make a Playful Yet Robust 3D Letter Design

This tutorial is perfect for the advanced beginner who wants to take their skills to the next level. We’ll explore how to create 3D text and use depth-of-field to enhance a design.

Create a Vibrant 3D Pixel Type Treatment

In this tutorial, I will show you how to create a fun 3D pixel font type treatment. Using a free font, gradients, and Illustrator 3D filter, you will easily create a type treatment that you can apply to many other fonts.

Create an Angry-Clean Bar of Vector Soap

In this tutorial, we’ll explain how to create a bar of soap and give it a retro look. This isn’t just any soap though, but vector soap that has a stylistic nod to Fight Club. You’ll also learn to enhance this design with type that has an equivalent extrusion applied to it. I am jacks clean, calm, vector rage!

How to Create Dirty, Recessed Type in Illustrator – Vector Plus Tutorial

If you want to learn how to craft a custom recessed text effect, then we have an awesome tutorial for you. Vector Plus members learn to create recessed graphics by taking advantage of Illustrator’s 3D tools, which add a sense of depth to your artwork.

Object Illustrator 3D Tutorials

Learn to combine multiple 3D vector objects, Illustrator 3D effects, and various graphics to create complex and interesting artwork.

Rendering a 2D Spark Plug Diagram from 3D Components in Illustrator

Often, the best way to be sure of your depth and angles is to render objects using Illustrators 3D tools. This tutorial will take you through building a 3D spark plug from multiple components and then expanding the image into a 2D vector diagram. Previous experience with Illustrators Revolve and Extrude tools will be necessary for this.

Working with 3D Objects and Transparencies to Make a Vector Cola Bottle Design

In this tutorial, we’ll be taking those skills up a notch and discussing how Illustrator deals with transparency in 3D objects. In just a few steps you’ll have created a plastic cola bottle, which is ideally suited for those of you involved in product marketing.

Make a Handy 3D Vector Calendar Icon

Learn to make a handy calendar icon to use on your blog, website, or print projects. We’ll use Illustrators Path and 3D tools to create this design.

How to Create an Open Book with Illustrator’s 3D Extrude & Bevel Tool

In this tutorial, we’ll explain how to create an open book using mostly Illustrator’s 3D Extrude & Bevel Tool. We’ll create open pages with graphics and add a wavy background. The book can be customized by applying your own graphics to the pages.

Make a Sleek and Refreshing Vector Energy Drink

Take your skills to the next level with this tutorial on creating a shiny voluminous object. We’ll cover how to use a variety of tools like Gradient Mesh and 3D effects to create a more realistic illustration.

Create a Milk Bottle with a Funny Cow Label

In this tutorial, we’ll explain how to create a 3D milk bottle. We’ll also cover how to create and apply a cute cow label to it. Let’s have some fun with this one!

Create a Can of Beans by Mapping Vectors to a 3D Object

Illustrator has offered a range of 3D tools for some time and this tutorial aims to get you started familiarizing yourself with them. We’ll be creating a can of beans, built entirely from vectors, using the Symbols palette, the Extrude tool and Illustrator’s Image Mapping. Enjoy!

How to Design a Custom Newspaper Icon – Vector Plus Tutorial

If you want to learn how to craft a custom newspaper icon in Illustrator, then we have an awesome tutorial for you. In this tutorial, Jonathan takes Vector Plus members through the process of using Illustrator’s 3D tools, and numerous other Illustrator tools, to construct this icon.

Create a Sleek Vector Multimedia Device – Vector Plus Tutorial

We have another awesome PLUS tutorial exclusively available to members today. If you’re looking for a workflow that demonstrates how to professionally combine traditional illustration with the 3D Tools built into Illustrator, then this tutorial is for you.

Additional 3D Tutorials From Elsewhere

There are also quite a few tutorials across the net that you can use to built your Illustrator 3D skills with. Take a look at a couple roundups below to see if any of those projects capture your imagination:

• 50 Excellent 3D Adobe Illustrator Tutorials
• 40 Useful Adobe Illustrator 3D Tutorials and Techniques

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Tutorial Wrap

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  How to Design a Skate Deck with a Cool Skull Pattern

  Illustrator’s built in Symbol Sprayer can be a highly useful tool for quickly creating awesome pattern graphics. This tutorial from Spoon Graphics demonstrates how to create an intricate pattern using a skull graphic that can be used to customize a skateboard deck.

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  Zee Logo in Illustrator

  Not too long ago our friends at Abduzeedo redesigned the logo for Zee, the umbrella company for their blog. This tutorial demonstrates the techniques used to create their new brand in Illustrator and is an excellent example of how to create custom typography using some of Illustrator’s basic tools.

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  Using Transform Again in Illustrator

  Transforming objects at even intervals by hand in Illustrator can be an impossible task. This quick tip from the Go MediaZine demonstrates how to use the transform feature in Illustrator in combination with a keyboard shortcut to quickly transform objects at even intervals.

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  Illustrator 101: Superfast Spacing with the Blend Tool (Video)

  As you become more versed in the Illustrator application you will find out that there are several ways to produce the same effect. Each method provides certain benefits over the other. This quick video tutorial from BittBox demonstrates another method for repeating shapes; this time, using the blend tool.

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  Create a Cartoon Monster Eye in Illustrator in 5 Easy Steps

  One of the really nice things about Illustrator is how easily it allows you to quickly combine shapes to create illustrations. This beginner’s tutorial from Little Box of Ideas demonstrates how to create a cartoon monster eye illustration in just 5 easy steps and in less than 5 minutes.

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  Creating a Dotted Line in Illustrator

  Sometimes in order to get Illustrator to produce a desired effect, you have to think up creative ways to tweak some of the options. This beginner’s tutorial from The Design O’ Blog demonstrates how to create a dotted line using Illustrator’s stroke palette.

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(FREE!) Download Picks

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  12 Floral Borders & Dividers

  These gorgeous vector floral borders from Vector Diary were actually created in August after we wrote last month’s Best of the Web article. Since we know how much you guys love floral vectors, we decided to include this set in this month’s round up. Feel free to download this set to decorate your designs.

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  Bitchin Blobs – 30 Free Vectors

  Sometimes all your illustration needs to go from good to great is an interesting abstract graphic. In those situations these “bitchin’ blobs” from Media Militia might be the perfect fit. Use these graphics as a frame or as a background for your design. You might even try dropping them into your designs just to make an area a bit more interesting.

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  10 Free Geometric Abstract Vectors

  Speaking of abstract vectors, this set of 10 fun, original, abstract vectors from My Ink Blog were inspired by Picasso’s blue period. This set can be used to add all sorts of fun to your web or print designs. Feel free to download them and try them out for yourself!

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  Drips and Spray Paint Pack – 30 Free Vectors

  Reproducing the look of spray paint in your designs can be more difficult than you think. This set of 30 drips and spray paint vectors from Media Militia may solve your spray paint problems. Drop these free vectors into your illustration to see how they work.

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  Vector Pattern

  Seamless patterns have an endless amount of uses; from fashion design, to package design; from print graphics to web. Use these phenomenal seamless pattern from Qvectors to dress up your designs.

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Vector Inspiration

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  25 Inspiring Examples of Abstract Vector Design

  There are a lot of amazing vector artists and designers out there. Each month we include a section in our monthly round up dedicated to vector inspiration. This post from PSD Fan includes 25 inspiring examples of abstract vector design.

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  30 Typography Posters That You’ve Probably Never Seen Before

  Typography is the art of arranging, designing and modifying type. Creating a well-designed typography poster isn’t exactly easy. This inspirational post from Web Designer Depot includes 30 typography posters that you’ve probably not seen before.

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  Photo-Realistic Vectors from 10 Illustrators

  When most people think of photo-realistic graphics, most people think of the 3D graphics that we see from Hollywood or some of the amazing work done by digital painters. When people think of photo-realistic graphics however, the last thing they think about is Adobe Illustrator. This post from 10 Steps displays some amazing work from artists who have learned to master the gradient mesh tool. If you’re looking for tutorials on this subject, then check this post out 30 Illustrator Gradient Mesh Tutorials to Help Enhance Your Vector Realism here on Vectortuts+.

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  Interview with Rod Hunt

  Our friends at Vectips are always coming up with amazing tutorials, articles, and interviews. This interview with Illustrator Rod Hunt displays some amazing retro-isometric styled vector landscapes and characters.

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  50 Awesome Examples of Triangles in Design

  Triangular elements can completely transform a rather lame and uninteresting illustration into a magical masterpiece. This inspirational post from Abduzeedo celebrates the triangle with 50 awesome examples of triangles in design.

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Hit the jump and learn to the max!

Phototuts+ – Photography Tutorials

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  7 Tips for Taking Travel Photos Like a Pro

  Travel photography seems so simple. What could be easier than traveling to an exotic location in a beautiful country with a camera and a handful of memory cards and taking some amazing photos? But, when you arrive at your location, you find that it’s a lot harder to take a decent travel photo than it looks. In this tutorial I’ll be sharing seven key tips for taking professional-looking travel photos you will appreciate for years to come.

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  Create a Stunning High-Key Portrait Photo

  Creating weaponry effectively in a next-gen workflow requires detailed knowledge of a variety of very specific skills and tools. In this four part tutorial you will learn how to create a combat knife suitable for use in next-gen games.

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  How to Shoot and Post-Process Professional HDR Photos in One Day

  In this tutorial you will learn the simple secrets of crafting a shoot sequence for HDR and creating professional quality HDR images in both Photomatix and Photoshop (depending on your weapon of choice). Not only will you learn an efficient workflow, but you’ll also learn the theory behind Dynamic Range. This lesson is taught by Peter Tellone, a professional photographer specializing in HDR landscapes.

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  Photography Kick-start Guide: How Your Camera Works

  Most photography tutorials, including most of the ones you’ll find here on the Tuts+ network of web sites, assume a certain base level of knowledge. But what if you’ve only just decided you want to make the leap into taking photos with manual settings?

  In this tutorial you’ll start to begin to learn the fundamentals of photography – fundamentals that will allow you to start reading and using more advanced tutorials, and manipulating the manual settings on your camera. Here we cover exposure, how the camera works, the shutter, focus, light, depth of field and ISO.

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  How to Use Flash With a Slow Shutter to Create Motion and Ghosts

  Though the still photo is a beautiful thing, it does have its weaknesses – especially when it comes to portraying movement. In this tutorial you’ll learn how to faithfully capture movement by taking photos that use flash and a slow shutter speed. You’ll learn about recommended gear, how to choose appropriate subjects, setting up the shoot, dealing with lighting and choosing the best settings on your camera.

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Cgtuts+ – 3D Tutorials

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  Model a Photorealistic Boss Tu-2 FX Pedal in Modo

  In this two-part tutorial you will learn how to model the Boss Tu-2 FX pedal using Luxology’s Modo 302. Taking advantage of Modo’s workflow enhancing toolset, the model will be highly detailed, and suitable for close up renders from any angle.

  Day 1 Day 2

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  Next-Gen Weapon Creation

  Creating weaponry effectively in a next-gen workflow requires detailed knowledge of a variety of very specific skills and tools. In this four part tutorial you will learn how to create a combat knife suitable for use in next-gen games.

  Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4

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  How to Export 3D Camera Data from Cinema 4D Into After Effects

  When it comes to motion graphics, exporting camera data from a 3D program to a 2D compositing program is one of the most important techniques you could know. In this tutorial, you will learn the basics behind getting Cinema 4D and After Effects to talk to one another, including using exporting tags, using the camera data in After Effects within 3D layers and effects, and how to set up and tweak your render for the best results.

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  An Introduction to Fluid Simulations in Blender

  Learning to simulate realistic fluids in any 3d app is always a challenge, but Blender’s sophisticated solver allows for some very rewarding results.

  In this introduction to Blender fluid simulations, you will learn the basics of how to set up a fluid simulation in Blender with an obstacle, and a few fluid set ups to give you an idea of some of the other things that you can do with Blender fluids.

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  An Introduction to 3Ds Max: Polygonal Modeling

  In the first part of the series, professional video game artist, Kaleb Aylsworth, walked you through many of the key skills that you will need to get started modeling in 3ds Max. Now, in the second part, he will demonstrate how to apply the things that you have learned by using them to make a low-poly version of Guy van der Walt’s “Retro TV Set”. You can see some more examples of Guy’s work at his portfolio website, Plasticboy.

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Nettuts+ – Web Development Tutorials

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  8 Regular Expressions You Should Really Know

  Regular expressions are a language of their own. When you learn a new programming language, they’re this little sub-language that makes no sense at first glance. Many times you have to read another tutorial, article, or book just to understand the “simple” pattern described. Today, we’ll review eight regular expressions that you should know for your next coding project.

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  Design and Code Your First Website in Easy to Understand Steps

  In this tutorial, we’re going to design and code our first website in simple, easy steps. This tutorial was written for the beginner with the hope that it will give you the tools to write your own standards-compliant websites! It’s a brand new week; maybe it’s time to learn a new skill!

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  30+ PHP Best Practices for Beginners

  PHP is the most widely-used language for programming on the web. Here are thirty best practices for beginners wanting to gain a firmer grasp of the fundamentals.

  Editor’s Note: The “Best Practices” series has been my baby for three articles now. However, due to my focus on the CI video series, I’ve decided to hand off this next entry to Glen. Having said that, I’m not very good at keeping my mouth shut! I thought it might be fun to sporadically add a few rebuttals to his tips. I hope he doesn’t mind!

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  6 Ways to Improve your Web Typography

  Typography on the web is anything but simple, and for many, it is a troubling mystery. Today, we’re going to review six ways that web designers and developers can improve the typography of the sites they create.

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  A Crash-Course in Advanced CSS3 Effects

  Webkit is one of the few – if only – browser engines that really embraces advanced CSS3 effects. Unfortunately, this presents somewhat of a double-edged sword. We get to play with all of these amazing effects – such as CSS masks, reflections, transitions, animations, scaling, etc. – yet, we can’t truly implement them into our projects until more browsers provide support. With all of that said, it’s important to be on the cutting edge of what’s possible.

  In today’s video tutorial, we’ll review a bunch of different neat effects that can be used in Safari 4, Chrome, and for all iPhone development

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Audiotuts+ – Audio Tutorials

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  How to Use Multi-band Compression in Mixing and Mastering

  In some of my recent tutorials I have been breaking down the processors used in a typical mastering chain into individual subjects. So far we have looked at buss compression, M/S processing and stereo enhancement. In this tutorial we are going to look at multi-band compression.

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  36 Audio Interfaces Under $1000

  Most computers come with a sound card with line and mic inputs, and many people use these when starting out with audio recording. But if you are serious about the quality of your work, you should avoid them. They have inferior audio to digital converters, and often produce a good deal of noise. You need to choose a professional audio interface that allows you to plug in your mics and instruments, and connects to your computer through a USB, Firewire, PCI or PCMCIA interface.

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  Advanced Drum Editing in Kontakt

  I created this tutorial to serve two purposes. First off, I feel that there is a distinct lack of proper in-depth Kontakt tutorials. This tutorial teaches you everything you need to know to get started with Kontakt 3’s amazing Group editing. Second, I find that there are plenty of threads out there where someone will ask “How do I get my drums to sound like ____?” (Usually Squarepusher). I feel that group editing is the quickest, yet most hands-on way of creating incredible, glitchy beats without relying on VST effects as a crutch (and therefore avoiding sounding like anybody who else who uses Plug-in X).

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  How to Configure Your Axiom Control Surface with Logic Pro 9

  MIDI controllers with control surfaces are quite common and affordable these days. They can control just about any aspect of your DAW, but their strength is in allowing you to control the DAW while at the keyboard as opposed to being used for a mixing session after tracking is finished. Since the Axiom doesn’t come with any Logic presets, let’s take a look at how to configure all those buttons, faders and knobs from withing Logic.

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  How to Layer Hip Hop Drums in FL Studio

  Although it is often seen as a signature move of Hip Hop producers, customizing drums through layering is a technique used by artists in every genre, and it allows you to have fresh, new drum sounds that will energize your productions. Using simple tools and sounds you already have, you can expand your sound palette. In this tutorial, Sean Duncan gets us started.

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Psdtuts+ – Photoshop

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  Create a Mixed Media Masterpiece – Psd Plus Tutorial

  If you want to take your photo hand crafted textures into Photoshop and create a high-quality mixed media illustrations, then we have an exciting tutorial for you. Learn more at the jump!

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  How to Create a One-of-a-Kind Twitter Background in Photoshop

  If you’re on twitter and reading this blog, chances are you’ve already customized your profile with a cool twitter background. In this tutorial, we’ll create one of our own around a central mascot: a highly detailed twitter bird, that you’ll have to draw yourself! Get ready to do much more than clicking in this artistic tutorial!

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  Manipulate Smoke to Create Hyper-Real Images

  Learn to apply the Warp Tool effectively and a few other tricks to make smoke look like a skull. This technique has a variety of outcomes and works well with water, clouds and a whole bunch of other stuff. This is probably more for intermediate users, as I guide you through the process well, but not every Warp Grid point handle move. Let’s get started!

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  How to Create an Original Pin-Up Girl in Photoshop

  In this tutorial, I will be taking you through the steps that I do when creating a cartoon pin-up. I will start off with thumbnails and continue on to the final image. Along the way, I will be sharing with you my techniques and thought process when it comes to creating an original image with Photoshop. Let’s get started!

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  How to Create a Fallen Angel on Fire Photo Manipulation – Psd Plus Tutorial

  If you want to take your photo manipulation work to the next level, then we have an exciting tutorial for you. We’ll work with fire and other images to create this fantasy scene. Learn more at the jump!

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Vectortuts+ – Vector & Illustrator

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  How to Create a Mesh Flower in Illustrator

  In this tutorial, we’ll explain how to create a flower with Illustrator’s mesh tools and opacity masks. With these tools you have a high-degree of control and can create realistic looking illustrations. Let’s get started!

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  Create Illustrated Type from Sketch to Vector – Vector Plus Tutorial

  If you want to learn how to combine illustration and typography, then we have an awesome tutorial for you. Learn more about this tutorial at the jump!

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  How to Create a Rainy Window Vector Background

  Using the Symbolism Tools, plus a bit of Gradient Mesh, learn to make a realistic window covered with raindrops. This is an advanced tutorial that assumes a fair amount of Illustrator experience, but everyone should be able to follow along. It can be done with earlier versions of Illustrator, but takes full advantage of newer features in CS4. Let’s get started!

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  How to Illustrate a Brain Icon for OSX and Vista

  In this tutorial, I will show you how to create a cartoon style illustration of a brain, then how to convert the image for use as an icon for OSX and Vista. I’ll discuss some points about detailing for icon design as well. Let’s get started!

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  How to Create a Radial Mesh in Illustrator and Make a Vector CD

  Ever wonder about creating Radial Mesh in Illustrator? Yes, now you can and it will reveal more possibilities to you in Illustrator. In the first part of this tutorial you’ll learn how to create a Radial Mesh in Illustrator (without using any 3rd party plugin), and in second part we’ll create a Vector CD using that radial mesh method. So let’s do it!

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Flashtuts+ – Flash, Flex & ActionScript Tutorials

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  Create an Attractive Digital Clock in Flash

  ActionScript 3.0 is a very powerful language, capable of creating anything from simple and light utilities to full-featured desktop applications.

  In this tut, we’re going to create something simple, a basic and good looking digital clock in Flash.

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  AS3 101: Arrays

  In this installment of AS3 101, we’ll spend the entire tutorial exploring a single type of data available to most programming languages: the Array.

  Arrays are ways to keep lists of values. Arrays are useful to keep an arbitrary number of related items grouped together, and can represent complex data structures though nesting. In ActionScript, Arrays have quite a bit of flexibility and functionality, as we’ll see. After the usual abstract introduction, we’ll apply what we’ve learned (whilst also learning some more along the way) by building a rather simple puzzle game.

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  Make Your Flash Logo Bling with Alpha Gradient Masking

  In this tutorial we’ll look at how to create a logo which incorporates alpha gradient masking in its animation. I’ll explain some tips and tricks on how to get it working and avoiding some common problems.

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  Using AMFPHP with AS3 and CodeIgniter

  It seems that the AMFPHP project has now been laid to rest, unfortunately it never made it past the 1.9 beta version and nor did the tutorials. However, Adobe didn’t give up on it that easily and with the new Flex compilers they’ve included the AMF3 object encoding!

  Good news for all you Flexers, but it’s a different story for all you AS3′ers. Flex allows you to quickly and simply build a service that will interact with your AMFPHP code, but you have to get your hands dirty with AS3. So, I’ve decided that it’s time there’s a decent set of classes out there that help Bob build a site with AS3 using the AMFPHP gateway.

  And to throw some more dirt into the mix, we’ll be integrating AMFPHP with CodeIgniter so that we have a fantastic PHP framework for the backend.

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  Create Your Own Adobe AIR Application with Flash

  In this tutorial we’ll create a Twitter Reader application, fed from your own Twitter updates. We’ll look at some of the features of the nativeWindow class, how to sign it and make an install package.

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Aetuts+ – After Effects Tutorials

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  How to Create a Palmticular Tree

  In this tutorial, Vincent introduces a few of the new features in Particular 2 with the creation of a growing palm tree. Put on some sun screen and enjoy!

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  Creating a Tracked Head Wound

  In this tutorial Mathias shows that corner pin tracking can do much more than just replacing some pictures on a wall. We are going to compose a wound on a moving head and use the Mocha tracker in combination with his script MochaImport. Trust me, this is so much easier than creating a real head wound!

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  Create the “My Paper Mind” Effect

  This tutorial will teach you how to recreate the “My Paper Mind” effect done by Javan Ivey, but with the environment in mind, Nicolas has come up with a way to save some paper (as well as about 3 days worth of paper cuts!) It is all done in After Effects without any third party plug-ins. Enjoy!

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  Recreate Mac OSX Intro Video with C4D

  As the penultimate nugget of goodness in our Mac Lover’s Week, Satya created a 2 day tutorial that everybody will enjoy! In day 1, he will walk us through Cinema 4D and how to create the 3d text in this effect.

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  Make a Glitchy Interface Animation

  This tutorial will teach you how to recreate a stylized Glitch Interface Animation that resembles a high tech control system, with an analog monitor startup. Anthony Errisuriz provides his step by step process for creating this amazing effect with design from Illustrator and animating in After Effects.

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We’ve released quite a few tutorials for learning and mastering the Gradient Mesh Tool. There are lots of dedicated tuts on this tool on Vectortuts+ and across the web listed here. Also check out some inspirational links at the end of this post as well. And now it’s time to get our vector realism on!

How to Create a Yellow Submarine Icon with Gradient Meshes – Vector Plus Tutorial

If you want to learn how to use gradient mesh, pattern brushes and other advanced Illustrator tools to create a shiny submarine, then we have an awesome tutorial for you. This is one of the best Plus tutorials we have on the site. If you’re a member, then it’s a must see.

Illustrate a Pair of Sweet Gradient Mesh Cherries

Learn how to create a pair of cherries solely with the Gradient Mesh tool. If you’re not familiar with the Gradient Mesh tool, then this is a great tutorial to learn how to start using it. You can create artwork with a semi-realistic to very realistic look with that tool. It can take effort to master, but it’s worth your time.

Gradient Mesh Bell Pepper Tutorial

This is an awesome Gradient Mesh tutorial with stunning realistic results. This downloadable PDF offers encouragement for the beginner and detailed advice that those looking to master the Gradient Mesh tool will find useful.

Create realistic illustrations using Illustrator’s Gradient Mesh

This tutorial teaches you how to create a Brussels Chicory illustration from a reference photo using the Gradient Mesh Tool. Veerle covers all the details of using this tool to create this shiny vegetable in all it’s vector glory.

Gradient Mesh Tutorial of Thumbdrive

This is one of those tutorials found of DeviantArt, which is formatted as one big image. There are loads of detailed instructions on using the Gradient Mesh Tool to create a technical device.

How to Create an Energy Saving Bulb in Illustrator

In this tutorial you’ll learn how to create an energy saving bulb with the help of the Illustrator’s Mesh Tool. At the beginning it could be quiet hard to work with this tool, but if you get used to it, it’s fairly simple. Jump into this tutorial to get some advanced practice.

Mastering Mesh by Creating a Vector Fish

In this tutorial you’ll learn how to create numerous shapes using the Gradient Mesh Tool to color them uniquely. You’ll then merge these shapes into one whole fish illustration. This is a straight-forward and quality process to follow.

How to Create a Mesh Flower in Illustrator

Utilize Illustrator CS4 to create a flower with Illustrator’s mesh tools and opacity masks. With these tools you have a high-degree of control and can create realistic looking illustrations.

Gradient Mesh Portrait Tutorial

If you want to take your Gradient Mesh skills to the rockstar or ninja level, then this is the tutorial for you. Ever wanted to create plush photo-realistic vector illustrations? If so, this is the tutorial for you!

How to Create a Radial Mesh in Illustrator and Make a Vector CD

Ever wonder about creating Radial Mesh in Illustrator? Yes, now you can and it will reveal more possibilities to you in Illustrator. In the first part of this tutorial you’ll learn how to create a Radial Mesh in Illustrator (without using any 3rd party plugin), and in second part we’ll create a Vector CD using that radial mesh method. So let’s do it!

Illustrator Tutorial: Realistic Curtain

This is a relatively simple Gradient Mesh Tool tutorial with high quality results. Creating interesting backgrounds and fabrics are both good topics to practice and build your meshing skills with.

How to Create Vector Clouds with the Gradient Mesh Tool

Create impressionistic, infinitely-scalable vector clouds with the Gradient Mesh tool. It’s easy to start, but it takes a lot of time to master. There are several ways of approaching the Gradient Mesh – this one may be new to you.

Using Illustrator’s Mesh Tool as Nature Intended

Learn how to transform a flat vector leaf into a golden Gradient Mesh leaf. Follow practical and detailed steps to transform natural imagery and add a level of three dimensionality and color blending with the Gradient Mesh Tool.

Adobe Illustrator CS, CS4: Gradient Mesh Tool, Gradients & Blends

Kevin Hulsey is a master technical illustrator. He has a quick primer here to get you started with the Gradient Mesh Tool, as well as some high end inspiration to expand on what you think is possible with illustrator.

Tips for Working with the Gradient Mesh Tool In Illustrator

One of the most amazing and confounding tools in Adobe Illustrator is probably the Gradient Mesh tool. Working with this feature allows the user to divide almost any shape into a mesh. Each intersection of two lines (horizontal/vertical) can be colored with a solid color. This tutorial takes a different format than some of our other tuts, and will help you work with the Mesh tool better.

In this tutorial, we’ll show you some tips that will improve your Mesh work. We’ll also show you a proper workflow to get outstanding results with this tool. We’ll take a close look at creating a layer within the detailed file of a meshed boot. Also, you can download the source file of this tutorial for free: Vector Army Shoe Freebie.

Creating a Leaf with the Mesh Tool

“In this exercise, you’re going to create a leaf using the Mesh tool. I must first warn you that this exercise isn’t for the faint of heart. The Mesh tool is one of Illustrator’s most powerful tools-along with that power comes complexity.” While the Gradient Mesh Tool is powerful and difficult to master, this is a good introductory tutorial to get stared with.

Illustrator Tutorial: Master the Gradient Mesh Tool

This is a tutorial for the intermediate to advanced Gradient Mesh artists. The details covered in this tutorial will help transform your skills to the professional level. Learn how to create meshes along curves, control meshes to make gradient flow smoothly between color transitions, and more precise instruction. You’ll learn to create a super detailed dinosaur and loads of tips along the way!

Create a Yummy Ice Cream Icon with Mesh Objects and Blends

In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to create a fun icon made up of mesh object and blends. This is a fairly easy tutorial, although you should be familiar with the mesh tool as we’ll be using it extensively. This is good practice for your meshing skills.

Magical Butterfly – Gradient Mesh Tutorial

This is written for beginners to understand, though it may be challenging for someone new to the Gradient Mesh tool to jump in here and make drapes. If you’ve worked with the Gradient Mesh tool a couple times to create basic shapes, then you’ll want to tackle this tutorial next.

Make an Aurora Borealis Design in Illustrator

To recreate the light patterns of the Aurora Borealis you’d probably turn to Photoshop’s filters and effects. Use Illustrator however, and you’ll not only achieve a stunning end result, but you’ll also benefit from the flexibility of working with vectors. This is an intermediate level tutorial rewarding you with an attractive desktop wallpaper for your efforts! With the skills learned form this tutorial you’ll be able to use the gradient mesh tool for backgrounds in addition to skies.

Make a Shiny Gum Ball Machine with Mesh Gradients

In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to create a gum ball machine with mesh gradients. We’ll create the base, the glass casing, the money slot, and the opening where the bubble gum balls come out. This is an advanced tutorial and the pace is fairly quick. Intermediated Illustrator knowledge is required.

Vector Sun Glasses Video Tutorial Series

This video series is broken down into six segments. It’s relatively easy to digest, but this is a complex image of sunglasses and will take some practice to recreate something similar. It’s interesting to see how this artist goes about creating fast and loose with this tool.

New PLUS Tutorial – Create Some Delicious Mesh Tomatoes

We have another great Vector Plus tutorial exclusively available to members today. If you want to take your Illustrator Meshing skills to the next level, then we have a a comprehensive tutorial for you. It details how to use the Gradient Mesh tool to create juicy tomatoes! Every detail of creating this illustration is covered!

Gradient Mesh Adobe Illustrator Tutorial

This is a relatively simple illustration to create with the Gradient Mesh Tool and great practice for beginners. If you did the curtain and drape tutorials above, then this will be a good tutorial to see how similar techniques can be used on other objects.

Illustrate a Vector Lifesaver From Scratch

Learn how to create a unique lifesaver that can be used as an icon or design element. We’ll be working with the Pathfinder Tools to create the shapes. The Mesh Tool will help us to apply the color and highlights to give our object the desired “realistic” look. We’ll also take advantage of the Duplicate and Rotate Tools, so we get a balanced look.

Tutorial :-An intro to mesh tool

This is a great introductory tutorial for the Gradient Mesh Tool. Learn to create a cartoon moon with the tool. Starting with meshing a basic circle into a 3D ball is a great first step to get a grasp on how this tool works.

How to Make a Vector Military Cap Icon

This tutorial will show the intermediate-to-advanced Adobe Illustrator artist how to make a realistic military style cap icon using predominately gradients, blends, and the Gradient Mesh Tool. We’ll be using a photo reference to base this illustration on, though utilizing creative judgement throughout the process.

Create a Stylized Gradient Mesh Soccer Ball Illustration

In this tutorial, we’ll show the advanced Adobe Illustrator artist how to create a realistic looking soccer ball with mesh objects. You’ll learn how to create reflections with the Opacity Mask. We’ll also make our own swooshes and custom brushes. This is an interesting use of the Mesh tool and a quality end result.

Chinese Bamboo

This tutorial uses the Gradient Mesh Tool in a simple manner to achieve high quality results. It’s really helpful for those new to the mesh tool to learn how to create uncomplicated, simply beautiful illustrations.

Make a Fairy-Tale Inspired Magical Hand Shaped Vine

In this tutorial, we’ll show the intermediate to advanced Adobe Illustrator artist how to make a fairy-tale inspired magical vine that is shaped like a hand. You should have a basic understanding of Adobe Illustrator tools before you begin this tutorial. This tutorial uses a surprisingly simple Mesh to create these vines that are formed into a magical illustration.

Gradient Mesh and Realistic Vector Inspiration

If the tutorials above have got you craving more, then check out the links below for more realistic vector goodness and mesh inspiration.

• The World’s Most Photorealistic Vector Art
• Photo-Realistic Vectors from 10 Illustrators
• Inspirational Hyperreal Vector Artists and Images

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Hair can be a challenging subject. Take a look at how numerous artists depict hair as realistic, stylized, to set the composition, to add personality to their characters, and more. If you’re looking to create stylized vector hair for your next illustration, then this is a must view roundup. Time for some hairy vector inspiration!

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1. Document Setup

Switch instantly to document size and unit preferences by using Command + Alt + P.

2. Paste in Back (Command + B).

This command is useful when you try to give a drop shadow effect to a text or an object. Generally we paste in front, and then send it back. Next time, use Command + B to paste in back directly; and assign a dark color for the shadow.

3. Quick Spell check

While working with the text objects, you can check the spelling instantly by pressing Command + I. This saves you time from opening a text editor and checking the text for spelling.

4. Hide/Unhide Objects

For messy artwork with lot of objects, hide unwanted objects by using Command + 3. Unhide all using Command + Alt + 3. This is similar to Lock/Unlock with invisibility.

5. Lock/Unlock

Avoid accidental dragging of objects by locking them using Command + 2. Unlock them all using Command + Alt + 2

6. Threaded Text

While creating brochures, manage the bulk of text in different blocks by using threaded text. It adjusts the text flow in all blocks/columns as you append or modify it. To achieve this, make the block shapes, select them all and go to Type > Threaded Text > Create. You can use the Area Type Tool to feed the text inside.

You can show/hide those messy text threads using Command + Shift + Y.

7. Change Case

This option is useful when you want the entire text in upper, lower, title or sentence case. Select the text and go to Type > Change Case. Assign the case you want.

8. Show Hidden Characters

This command shows the returns and spaces in a text block so that you know if you have placed multiple returns by mistake, and are not able to see due to uneven line height of the text block. Select the text body and go to Type > Show Hidden Characters (Alt + Command + I)

9. Hanging Punctuation

Use Roman Hanging Punctuation and Optical Margin Alignment for better appearance of text blocks with quotes and hyphens.
For Roman hanging Punctuation; Select the text lines or block and select Roman Hanging Punctuation from the Paragraph panel menu.

Optical Margin Alignment: This option hangs the edges of letters like A and W slightly outside the text block, so that they look more balanced and aligned. To apply this, select the text and go to Type > Optical Margin Alignment.

10. Show/Hide Bounding Box

When the objects are too small, say 2px size; it becomes annoying when you try to drag them with the selection tool; just because of the bounding box that forces you to scale or rotate the object. You can instantly hide the bounding box using Command + Shift + B and toggle using the same command.

11. Zoom for 3-D objects

While zooming in or out for 3D objects, it takes a lot of time if you do this operation with Command ++ or Command–. Instead, you can use the zoom level located at the lower-left corner of the main window. Say, you want to switch from 30% to 400% in one step. Here, the zoom level will really help instead of Command++ where you have to zoom 8 times to reach from 30% to 400%.

12. Toggle Between Stroke and Fill color

Use “X” to toggle between Stroke and Fill. Use Shift + X to swap the Stroke and Fill color.

13. Create Crop Marks

Crop marks helps you identify where you want the printed work to cut or trim. To apply, select the object and go to Filter > Create > Crop Marks.

14. Customize Smart Guides

Smart Guides help you snap, align, create and edit objects relative to other objects. Use Command + U to enable Smart Guides. You can customize the snapping angle of your choice using Edit > Preferences > Smart Guides & Slices. In the Custom Angle option, specify the angles of your choice. This option is revolutionary when you are working with perspective.

15. Managing Views

This is extremely helpful when you are creating a Map diagram of fairly large size. Say, we are illustrating a World Map and want to switch the view from Japan to South Africa instantly. Generally, we will drag the entire art work with hand tool until we reach our destination.

Instead, save these views with different names using View > New View option. So that, next time when you want to switch over to South Africa, just click View > South Africa. This works similar to a navigator.

16. Appearance of Black

We all are familiar with Rich Black and Normal Black. By default, Illustrator displays and outputs all black as rich Black. If you want to clearly differentiate Rich and Normal black for screen view and for printing, use Edit > Preferences > Appearance of Black. Select “Display all blacks accurately” from the dialog box. Next time, you will see Rich as Rich and Normal as Normal.

17. Replace Spine

You can tween blended objects on customized paths using Replace Spine option. To apply, select the blended result along with the spine path and go to Object > Blend > Replace Spine. The blended objects will tween along the spine locus.

18. Save Selection

This option is helpful when you want the objects to be moved together, but also need the freedom to modify them separately. For this, select the objects and got to Select > Save Selection. Next time, just click on Select > Selection_name and all your desired objects will be selected.

19. Support for Arabic Languages

Although, Illustrator has got Asian Language support, sometimes a US based Illustrator version might not display Arabic language correctly. For this, type the desired Arabic text in Inkscape and export the converted paths as .eps files to Illustrator.

20. Switching from Illustrator to Corel Draw

Sometimes Corel Draw doesn’t allow us to import .AI files due to some missing plug-ins. In such case, export your artwork as .WMF (Windows Meta file) from Illustrator. Before exporting a .WMF file, enlarge your artwork to almost 1200% larger size. After successful import in Corel, again resize it back to the original size.

This is done for a reason; the small objects with fine curves are treated as distorted polygonal shapes in the output. So, it will be good if the size of the objects is fairly large while exporting. The .WMF files containing gradients are rasterized while importing in Corel; so remove the gradients while exporting. You can re-color them in Corel Draw.

Conclusion

The tips discussed in this tutorial are a brief round up of the Illustrator menu commands which can really boost up our performance with respect to time and quality. Hope you enjoyed them!

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Introduction

Why is that only people already addicted to CorelDRAW use it? Maybe they know something we don’t. In this article, I’ll review some of the issues with CorelDRAW. I think the developers of this software have created a sharp program, but not so user friendly.

CorelDRAW is very precise and reliable. All the tools give maximum control, but you must fight your way through to learn them. It’s definitely not the software that you can take for a quick spin and easily create great artwork.

The good news is that when you get used to its feature set, it becomes part of your thinking and can be a strong tool for creating astounding artwork. Let’s review a few pros and cons of CorelDRAW.

Er…How Do I Navigate?

First of all forget about the Space Bar equals Pan thesis. CorelDRAW has a navigator board but I must admit it’s not the real thing and most people don’t even know where it is (small box at the lower-right corner of the interface).

The easiest way to navigate is to zoom in and out to the pointer area with your mouse. This can be tricky sometimes if your mouse isn’t smooth enough. Sounds strange but once accustomed to this navigation technique you will get addicted to it. If you still feel lost grab the Hand Tool (H) to pan, and press spacebar to change back to the previous tool.

What About Freehand Brushes?

This is a real pain. CorelDraw’s freehand tools are only a concept but are nearly impossible to use them. Just try to do a quick hatching with the the freehand tool. You will end up with a mess, since you will continuously select the previously drawn lines.

It’s OK though, as this is not primarily freehand painting or sketching software. There are some other industry standard tools on the Corel palette (for example Painter) which excel in this field. But once again this is a week point since the core concept of the software is not to painting.

The World’s Best and Easiest Curves/Nodes Management

When you get down to the details you will be amazed how easy is to use the bezier tool and how precise its curve management is. If you are after vectorization then Corel Draw is great. Corel Draw is excellent software when it comes to vector tools. You have all the control over the nodes and curves with mathematical precision.

The right-click context menu makes vectorization so precise that technical illustration is easy to create. I take a deep bow in front of the team who developed this. This part is the strength of CorelDRAW from the dawn of vector software.

Super Fine Gradient Mesh

You need photo-realistic vectors? Just grab the super easy gradient mesh tool and you will make unbelievable vector portraits in no time. The Corel company has bundled photo-realistic art already in the version 8 clip art, and don’t forget the Hedy Lamar illustration on the cover of version 8. If you check the Corel community galleries you will find some gorgeous photo-realistic portraits, though the galleries are sometimes awkward and the community isn’t very exciting.

Highly Controllable Boolean Operations

I simply love this part of CorelDRAW. When you need to cut, weld, trim or intersect just open up the shaping docker and you have maximum control over the Boolean operations and the resulting shapes. Actually, you can base your style on these fine set of tools. Check them out for yourself.

Strange and Useful Effects

The effect palette is also a strength of CorelDRAW. I use these tools most of the time, especially the contour tool. Try some of this for extra options.

Color Separation and Prepress Goodness

If you’re working in the DTP business, CorelDRAW is your humble servant. It corrects your mistakes silently and makes color separation and prepress work as easy as it can be. The main concept of this software, the precision, has its word in the printing menu.

Screen Refreshing

If you want to spare yourself from getting upset, then don’t forget to press Command + W often to refresh the screen. CorelDRAW tends to forget to do this for you, which can be quite annoying sometimes.

Trace!

CorelDRAW has top notch tracing software integrated. It is quick, highly-customizable, and precise. Even if you don’t like other parts of the software, trying Corel Draw’s trace is a must. As a plus they have included a font recognition routine in the X4 version, which uses What the font! to find out what font was used on your scan. Nice idea!

Who uses CorelDraw Anyway?

Some really great artists from all around the world use CorelDRAW. Here is a short list to demonstrate.

AtixVector (Santiago, Chile)

machine56 (Bandung, Indonesia)

umidelmare(Wonderland)

Igor Tkac (igortshirts)

anhem

trojza (Alexander Poslykhalin)

GruberJan (Tatsyana Prokofieva)

Alexxx1 (Alexey Oglushevich)

RookeMare (Denvah, Colorado)

Ramonova (Russia)

Bmart333 (Pittsburgh, PA)

Conclusion

CorelDRAW can be awkward, especially to new users, but powerful in the hands of a seasoned user. You must decide the right vector software for you.

If you are a fan of South Park, choose Corel Draw because all the characters, scenery, and props are drawn using this vector package, as wikipedia states.

Finally, below is some artwork from renowned vectorist Roberlan, which showcase the choosing a vector software platform controversy.

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Tutorial Wrap

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  Illustrator Tutorial: How to Make an Icy Cocktail

  Who doesn’t love an icy and refreshing cocktail on a hot, sunny day? This tutorial from Vector Diary explains how to create a vector glass, straw, umbrella, and even fruit in Adobe Illustrator and assemble it into a fun, icy cocktail.

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  Editing New Document Profiles in Adobe Illustrator CS4

  This quick tip from Layer Magazine’s Dave Cross will be a huge time-saver for anyone who works with Illustrator often. After watching this video tutorial you will understand how to edit document profiles in Illustrator to quickly create new types of files with pre-defined presets.

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  Illustrator Type Technique Using Shapes

  Logo design is something that really can’t be taught in a tutorial. The most difficult part about logo design is not the execution of the logo itself; it’s the creative process behind it. This tutorial from Veerle demonstrates some basic techniques to create a typographic logo design.

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  InDesign Quick Tip: Indent to Here

  Trying to line up an indented, bulleted list by hand is next to near impossible. This InDesign quick tip from Go Media explains how to quickly create a bulleted list in InDesign with a very handy keyboard shortcut. Also, don’t miss Go Media’s Rapid-Fire Illustration Technique, which is awesome.

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  Creating Editable Letterpress Styled Text

  A popular typographic trend in web and print design is letterpress styled text. This technique is easy to do in Photoshop but did you know that you can also achieve the same effect in Illustrator as well? This tutorial from Vectips explains how to create this effect using the appearance panel and graphic styles while keeping the text editable.

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  Illustrator Ring Shape via Overlapping Crescents Effect

  If there is one thing I’ve realized about Illustrator over the years it’s that some effects look harder to achieve than they really are. This tutorial from Veerle was in response to a reader question asking how to achieve an overlapping crescent effect reminiscent of the work of M.C. Escher.

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(FREE!) Download Picks

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  Mono Circles

  Seamless patterns are an awesome way to add some interest to your design’s background. This nice set of mono circle patterns from Pattern Head will work very nicely when used as an overlay or as a primary part of your site’s design. Download this set and try them out for yourself.

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  20 Seamless Plaid Patterns for Illustrator

  It’s been a long time since I’ve posted any vector elements on my website. This set of 20 seamless vector plaid patterns from Colorburned is a great way to simulate plaid textiles and can be used for the web, print, or even fashion design.

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  Floral Elements

  Floral elements are one of those things that you can’t really have enough of. This set of floral elements from G01 Haider on Deviant Art is really nice and will make an excellent addition to your design arsenal if you choose to download them.

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  Building Vector Pack

  Vector skylines are always useful design elements to have in your collection and can be commonly used to add some interest to your design’s horizon. This set of 15 vectors from Media Militia can be dropped into your design to create an awesome urban scene.

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  Vector Patterns: Evening Walk

  When working digitally, it’s common for some designs to look a bit too perfect. There is something very refreshing about seeing hand-drawn elements incorporated into a design of a website or graphic. This set of 8 Illustrator pattern swatches was doodled by Peehaa and can be used for both your commercial and personal works.

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Vector Inspiration

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  37 Super Cool Etch-a-Sketch Drawings

  The etch-a-sketch is sort of like poker; it takes 5 minutes to figure out how to use but years to learn how to master. It’s like the rubik’s cube; one of those toys that every kid owns but none of them play with because they’re just too hard. This roundup from Abduzeedo shows that it is possible to actually create drawings with this popular toy.

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  Great Style Illustrations by Iv Orlov

  This article from Pixel Element features the work of Iv Orlov, a Russian illustrator who has designed for many magazines including Men’s Health, Inflight Review, AirUnion, Glamour, Harvard Business Review, and many more. To see his work, check out this fantastic round up.

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  60+ Amazing Examples of Illustrative Web Designs With Overview

  One big trend among web designers is adding illustrative elements. This has become popular because Illustrative techniques can add character and depth to an otherwise dull design. This round up of 60 illustrative websites includes overviews to give these designs a bit of context.

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  45 Creative Business Card Designs You Should’ve Seen

  A bad looking business card can often leave a bad impression. If you do a lot of networking in the design community, a good looking card is almost as important as having a good portfolio. This round up of 45 creative business card designs should be a helpful resource to anyone who is looking for inspiration for their next card design.

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  25 Amazing Inspirational Vector Illustrations

  When working with Illustrator, it’s always fun to see some of the amazing works of art that can be created with it. This round up of 25 inspirational vector illustrations from Creative Nerds is really nice. Check it out and be inspired!

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Take a look at how numerous artists have created vector masks. There are quite a few ancient mask traditions one could research for further inspiration from various county’s cultures. After viewing this collection of vector art, dig deep and then get expressive with your own mask. First, let’s check out all this awesome vector artwork!

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