Thick wavy lines running parallel like train track - Do you know how to recreate this graphic?

[Evelien1]

Hi!
I'm trying to recreate the following waves.

The first one I managed to recreate with the zig zag (smooth) function, but as soon as there are more curves that run parallel to one another, I can't seem to make it work anymore. The curves / waves should be running like a train track, where the inner waves are adjusted to remain parallel with the outer waves. Right now they are the same size and therefore will run into one another in the corners - see my failed attempt below. Adjusting the zig zag size does not seem to work due to that it doesn't allow me to only slightly adjust it (e.g. setting 1.5 will automatically round up to 2).

Does anyone know how to recreate these images?

Thanks a lot!

[Mylenium]

Does anyone know how to recreate these images?

You meticulously draw them by hand?! Not everything can be done with a simple filter or effect...

Mylenium

[tromboniator · Accepted solution]

Edit: I forgot, of course, to mention changing the stroke weight after expanding.

Peter

[Evelien1]

Thanks for the help! I ended up creating an art brush, but applied it to the zig zag work instead of my scribbly drawings so the lines came out super smooth .

[tromboniator]

You're welcome! I'm delighted that you have a method that works.

[John Mensinger]

Yes, the Art Brush method is very useful. Other ways to make parallel-line stuff are Blend and Offset Path.

How to blend objects in Illustrator

How to Offset Paths in Illustrator - YouTube

[q3player]

According to some problems you might encounter when using Offset Path I would prefer using Brush.