You can show 3D effects in Illustrator primarily by using the built-in 3D features, such as the Extrude & Bevel effect.
Using the 3D Extrude & Bevel Effect
One of the fundamental ways to add depth and dimensionality to 2D objects in Adobe Illustrator is through the Extrude & Bevel effect. This effect takes a shape and extends it along a specified depth axis, creating a 3D appearance.
According to the provided reference, here's a basic workflow:
- Select your object: Start by creating or selecting the 2D shape you want to make 3D. For example, you might draw a star, square, or circle.
- Navigate to the menu: Go to the main menu bar at the top of the Illustrator window.
- Apply the effect: From the main menu, navigate to Effect > 3D > Extrude and Bevel.
- Configure settings: A dialog box will appear with various options for controlling the depth of the extrusion, perspective, lighting, and surface appearance.
- Click OK: After setting your desired parameters (or just using the defaults initially), click OK.
This process will transform your 2D object into a 3D-looking shape with extruded sides.
Exploring Your 3D Object
Once the effect is applied:
- Rotation: To view different sides of the object, you can rotate it. The reference mentions using the Rotate Tool, but within the 3D Effect options dialog, you also have controls to rotate the object directly or use the bounding box after the effect is applied.
- Changing Side Color: The reference suggests you can change the color of the extruded sides. You can do this by double-clicking on the Stroke colour in the Tool bar. This allows you to modify the color that Illustrator uses for the "stroke" part of the 3D appearance, which often corresponds to the extruded sides depending on your settings.
Other 3D Capabilities
While Extrude & Bevel is a core method, Illustrator also offers other ways to create 3D effects, including:
- Revolve: Creates a 3D object by revolving a 2D shape around an axis.
- Rotate: Rotates a 2D object in 3D space without adding depth (useful for positioning flat objects in a 3D scene).
These effects are also found under the Effect > 3D & Materials menu in newer versions of Illustrator (or Effect > 3D in older versions). The newer 3D & Materials panel offers more advanced features like real-time rendering, different materials, and lighting options.
Creating 3D effects in Illustrator involves applying these specific effects to your 2D artwork and then adjusting the parameters to achieve the desired look.
