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southwestform
Inspiring
February 21, 2018
Question

Basic Blending Questions

  • February 21, 2018
  • 4 replies
  • 509 views

I created two circles and each has a different gradient. I duplicated them multiple times and I chose Blend > Make and it blended the shapes. My goal is to create a continuous shape creating a smooth blend between the two gradients

1. On my 2015 Mac with 32GB of RAM I get a spinning beach ball after making it and when I try to move it. Is there a number of steps that is realistic to use so it does not lag when trying to do this?

2. What is the difference between what I am trying to do and just creating a gradient? Can this also be done with a gradient?

3. Is the Blend tool the tool to use if you want to create skin tones?

Thanks.

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    4 replies

    rcraighead
    rcraighead
    Legend
    February 22, 2018

    If you are simply trying to create "realistic" flesh tone blends you could try some custom transparent brushes I created for just that purpose. Here is a link:

    http://www.raycraighead.com/uploads/1/2/5/3/12531834/fadebrushes.ai

    Their usefulness goes far beyond fleshtones.

      barbara_a7746676
      Community Expert
      barbara_a7746676Community Expert
      Community Expert
      February 22, 2018

      1. The number of steps needed would depend on how far apart the two circles are and how large the circles are.

      These two circles are about 9 inches apart and it was easy to re-position them.

      2. It could be done with a gradient mesh, but not with a gradient. It is faster and easier to do it with a blend.

      3. For realistic skin tones gradient mesh would work well. If the illustration is more stylized, a blend or gradient would work well.

      ceyhun_akgun
      ceyhun_akgun
      Legend
      February 22, 2018

      Increasing the number of steps in the blend process provides a smooth color transition. For the smoothness of the gradient, 250 steps are required for the line.

      I think that the mesh function should not be confused with Gradient. I think Mesh is an advanced level illustration tool and is very successful.

      The Blending tool for the skin can also be used. I recommend the MESH function.

      Graphic Designer Educator / PrePress Consultant
      rcraighead
      rcraighead
      Legend
      February 22, 2018

      My first thought was "AI won't blend gradients" but it does. I think though, in most cases a mesh would be much easier and provide a smoother color transition.

      Monika Gause
      Community Expert
      Monika GauseCommunity Expert
      Community Expert
      February 21, 2018

      You might want to show us a screenshot.

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