how to create this in illustrator

[Wheeler25]

Hi, 

I am creating a stud effect on illustrator for every letter of the alphabet similar to the below, rather than placing each individual dot i was wondering if there was a quicker solution. I have tried scatter brush but that. does not give the same effect as the image below as some dots will overlap or i cant get it tight enough near the letter, any suggestions will be greatly appreciated 

[Anna Lander]

try to create a symbol from a circle and another symbol from a star. Spray symbols along the S shape, adjust the instances positions and sizes using Symbols tools (Shifter, Sizer, Scruncher etc.). Place S above the symbols area and set Fill = background color, Stroke = your drawing color. Tweak the symbols if needed.

This quick sketch took about 10 minutes

it's just draft but allows to see an idea

[Monika Gause]

Please show your results and your brush.