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Adjusting gradients with the gradient tool
Once you have filled an object with a gradient, the gradient tool lets you modify the
gradient by "repainting" the fill along an imaginary line you drag. This tool lets you change
the direction of a gradient, change the beginning point and endpoint of a gradient, and
apply a gradient across multiple objects.
To use the gradient tool:
1 Select an object whose gradient you want to modify.
2 Select the gradient tool
3 Position the pointer where you want to define the beginning point of the gradient, and
drag across the object in the direction you want the gradient to be painted. Hold down
Shift to constrain the tool to multiples of 45 degrees.
4 Release the mouse button where you want to define the endpoint of the gradient.
To apply a gradient across multiple objects:
1 Fill each object with a gradient using the Gradient palette, the Swatches palette, or the
paint bucket tool.
2 Select all of the objects.
3 Select the gradient tool
4 Position the pointer where you want to define the beginning point of the gradient, and
drag across the objects in the direction you want the gradient to be painted.
5 Release the mouse button where you want to define the endpoint of the gradient.
Creating multicolored objects with the mesh tool
The mesh tool, the Create Mesh command, and the Expand command can all be used to
transform an object into a mesh object. A mesh object is a single, multicolored object on
which colors can flow in different directions, and transition smoothly from one point to
another.
By creating a fine mesh on an object and manipulating the color characteristics at each
point in the mesh, you can precisely manipulate the coloring of the mesh object. You can
also apply color to four mesh points at the same time by clicking the patch between them,
to create broad color changes on part of the object.
About meshes
When you create a mesh object, multiple lines called mesh lines crisscross the object and
provide a way to easily manipulate color transitions on the object. By moving and editing
points on the mesh lines, you can change the intensity of a color shift, or change the
extent of a colored area on the object.
At the intersection of two mesh lines is a special kind of anchor point called a mesh point.
Mesh points appear as diamonds and have all of the same properties as anchor points but
with the added capability of accepting color. You can add and delete mesh points, edit the
mesh points, or change the color associated with each mesh point.
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Using Transparency, Gradients, and Patterns
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