Adding effects in Illustrator is a matter of a few simple steps and can add an extra dimension to your artwork. We show you how in our Adobe Illustrator training courses.
First select the object with the Selection tool – this can be either a drawn shape or a cut out object using the Clipping Mask technique. Then go to the Effect drop-down menu at the top of the Illustrator interface, and choose Stylize to see the list of possible effects. Choose Drop-Shadow for example to add a degree of three dimensions to the object. A dialog box will then open allowing you to fine-tune the effect. Make sure that the Preview box is selected on the bottom left of the dialog box.
On the left hand side panel you can add other effects, but in most cases “less is more”. Hit OK to exit the dialog box and apply the effect. If you need to tweak it in future simply select the object and open the Appearance panel – go to Window > Appearance if this is not visible. And you can see the effect listed as a sub-layer – double-click on this to reopen the dialog box. Incidentally, it’s best not to go to the Effect drop-down menu twice as this will only add an effect on top of an effect, and can takes ages to calculate.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or self-taught, our courses will help you gain self-confidence in your Illustrator workflow, as well as adding to your professional skill-set. See many examples of our Illustrator clients’ work on our Facebook page.
Other related Illustrator Blog Posts:
Illustrator workspace
Illustrator basics
Illustrator clipping masks
Illustrator live trace
Illustrator brushes