In the following tutorial, you will learn how to create a simple menu bar and a sleek web ribbon in Adobe Illustrator. For starters you’ll create pixel perfect shapes using the grid and Snap to Grid option. Next taking full advantage of the Appearance panel and using basic vector shape building techniques, you will learn how to add highlights and shading for your menu bar. Finally, using the Zig Zag, the Rounded Corners effects, a complex linear gradient plus some simple Pathfinder options, you will learn how to create the web ribbon.
Create a Simple Menu Bar and a Sleek Web Ribbon
- Tutorials
- September 10th, 2013
- 9 Comments
In the following tutorial, you will learn how to create a simple calendar icon in Adobe Illustrator. For starters, you will learn how to setup a simple grid, how to take full advantage of the Appearance panel and how to create a subtle texture. Next, you can learn how to use the basic Pathfinder options, how to easily align your shapes, how to cleverly use the Roughen effect and how to create a simple pattern. Finally, you will learn some basic masking techniques and how to wisely use the Transform effect. )
In this tutorial we are going to learn how to recreate the illustration style used for 
I absolutely love Illustrator’s ability to create seamless and amazing patterns. They are easily one of Illustrator’s most devious features. I have had a couple instances when clients observed some of my work containing patterns and exclaimed, “That must have taken forever!” Since I know how simple and quick it actually was it is only right to do the humble thing and explain, “Yes, yes it did.” In this tutorial we are going to take one of Illustrator’s stock patterns (Dots) and create a realistic Speaker Grill/Guitar amp Illustration. Let’s create some vector nectar!
Yes, you read that title correctly! I understand this tutorial title kind of seems like an oxy-moron. We are combining one of the most primitive and limited graphic techniques edited on a pixel level, with the modern sleek aesthetic of 3D effects. But the result is a juxtaposition so rockin it kicks you straight in your nostalgic keister! )
