askvity

How Do I Add Gradient Text in Illustrator?

Published in Adobe Illustrator 3 mins read

Here's how to add gradient text in Adobe Illustrator:

  1. Select the Text: Use the Selection tool (V) to click on the text you want to apply the gradient to.

  2. Open the Appearance Panel: If the Appearance panel isn't already open, go to Window > Appearance.

  3. Add a New Fill: In the Appearance panel, click the hamburger menu (the three horizontal lines) in the top right corner and select "Add New Fill." This adds a new fill attribute to your text object.

  4. Access the Fill Color: Click the square color swatch next to the word "Fill" in the Appearance panel. This will open the Swatches panel or the Color Picker.

  5. Choose a Gradient: In the Swatches panel, select a gradient from the available options. If you don't see a gradient you like, you can create your own using the Gradient panel (Window > Gradient).

Detailed Breakdown and Tips:

  • Appearance Panel is Key: The Appearance panel allows you to apply multiple fills and strokes to a single object. Using it is essential for gradient text because you're essentially adding a fill that utilizes a gradient.

  • Creating Custom Gradients: To create a custom gradient:

    1. Open the Gradient panel (Window > Gradient).
    2. Click on the gradient bar to add color stops.
    3. Double-click a color stop to change its color. You can choose colors from the Color panel, Swatches panel, or use the Eyedropper tool to sample a color from your artwork.
    4. Adjust the position of the color stops to fine-tune the gradient's appearance.
    5. Choose a gradient type: Linear or Radial.

  • Editing Existing Gradients: You can modify existing gradients by double-clicking on them in the Swatches panel or by using the Gradient panel.

  • Stroke Gradients: If you want a gradient on the stroke of your text instead of the fill, add a new stroke in the Appearance panel and then apply the gradient to the stroke.

  • Outline Text for More Complex Effects (Optional): For more advanced effects, like applying gradients across multiple letters or using more intricate fills, you can outline your text (Type > Create Outlines). However, be aware that outlining text converts it to vector shapes, making it no longer editable as text.

  • Troubleshooting:

    • No Gradient Showing? Make sure the "Fill" is above "Characters" in the Appearance panel. The order matters.
    • Solid Color Instead of Gradient? Double-check that you've actually selected a gradient in the Swatches panel and not a solid color.

Related Articles