Apply gradient to stroke—no gradient in arrowhead

Question

I have a line with an arrowhead. I would like it to have a smooth gradient along the stroke and through the end of the arrowhead. When I apply the gradient to the stroke, the gradient does not persist through the arrowhead (see attached photos).

I could make this work by expanding the appearance of the shape etc., but I’d rather have a more elegant/editable solution. Any suggestions?

Bottom: Arrow with discontinuous gradient compared to a line with the same gradient applied (detail in image 2). Top: Gradient settings

Monika Gause · Accepted Answer

Two options: You can use an artbrush and a knockout group (it would even be possible to have the arrow tip not bent): https://youtu.be/3YEJSseXUwQ
and you can use an opacity mask https://youtu.be/YFWQAcK-pIA

reedy · Answer

Yes ​@Monika Gausethe trouble does come from bent lines, I need gradient along stroke—see below. I guess I could use two separate lines and do my best to match the color at the joint…It did work to expand the arrow into a 2D shape and then use a freeform gradient as the fill, but it was messy and will be difficult to edit later…Thanks for the advice!!

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