In this tutorial, we’ll explain how to create a semi-realistic flash stick with gradients and simple shapes. We will make our own custom brush to create tattoo style swooshes. Also, we’ll review how to use Global Colors in Illustrator, which allows us to flexibly change the colors of an object on the fly.
PSDTUTS Author - Simona Pfreundner
Posts by Simona Pfreundner
Design a Colorful USB Flash Stick with Tattoo Style Decals
Sep 17th in Illustration by Simona Pfreundner
How to Create an Open Book with Illustrator’s 3D Extrude & Bevel Tool
Sep 12th in Illustration by Simona PfreundnerIn this tutorial, we’ll explain how to create an open book mostly with 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.
Illustrate a Pair of Sweet Gradient Mesh Cherries
Sep 4th in Illustration by Simona PfreundnerIn this tutorial, we’ll explain 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.
Create a Stylized Vector Police Badge with Metal and Leather
Aug 27th in Illustration by Simona PfreundnerIn this tutorial, we’ll explain how to create leather material in Adobe Illustrator with modified patterns, gradients, and layer blends. You’ll learn a simple way to create stitches and how to make shiny metals.
Create a Stylized Semi-Realistic Wine Glass
Aug 21st in Illustration by Simona PfreundnerIn this tutorial, we’ll look at how to create a semi-realistic object with gradients and layer blends. Also, we’ll learn more about the Blend Tool and how to create glass-like material with gradients and layers.
Create Stylized Vector Dog Tags
Aug 11th in Illustration by Simona PfreundnerIn this tutorial, we’ll explain how to create a stylized realistic object with gradients and layer blends. We’ll learn how to use the blend tool, how to add and subtract shapes, and overlay them. Let’s jump in and make some stylized vector dog tags in Illustrator.
Create a 3D Push Pin and a Paper Note in Illustrator
Jul 31st in Illustration by Simona PfreundnerIn 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
Create a Retro Style Poster with Shapes, Patterns, and Eagles
Jul 25th in Designing by Simona PfreundnerIn this tutorial, we’ll show the inspired Adobe Illustrator artist how to create a retro style poster. We’ll learn how to create shapes by using the Pathfinder tools, by joining paths, and by applying graphic patterns. We will also take advantage of the Appearance Palette and have some fun with applying multiple strokes to objects.
Create a Stylized Gradient Mesh Soccer Ball Illustration
Jul 18th in Illustration by Simona PfreundnerIn 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.
Illustrate a Vector Lifesaver From Scratch
Jul 2nd in Illustration by Simona PfreundnerIn this tutorial, we’ll 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.


















