To make objects 3D in Illustrator, you primarily use the 3D & Materials effects and panel. This allows you to apply depth, rotation, and perspective to 2D vector artwork.
There are several ways to achieve 3D effects, often involving applying specific effect types to your selected object:
Using 3D & Materials Effects
The modern way to make objects 3D in Illustrator involves the Object > 3D & Materials menu. This opens a panel offering various 3D effect types.
Key 3D Effect Types:
- Extrude & Bevel: Gives a 2D object depth by extending it along the z-axis. You can control the extrusion depth and add a bevel edge.
- Revolve: Creates a 3D object by rotating a 2D path (like a profile line or shape) around an axis. This method is excellent for generating symmetrical objects like spheres, cones, or lathed forms. As shown in the reference, you can use the Object > 3D types to revolve this line to quickly create a 3D shape from a profile.
- Inflate: Gives a 2D object a rounded, inflated look.
- Rotate: Applies 3D rotation to an object without adding depth, changing its perspective in 3D space.
- Objects: Allows you to apply and manage the above effects, control lighting, and materials using the dedicated 3D & Materials panel.
Steps to Make an Object 3D (Common Workflow):
- Select the 2D object you want to make 3D.
- Go to Object > 3D & Materials.
- Choose one of the 3D effect types (e.g., Revolve, Extrude & Bevel, or Inflate) from the menu or select Objects to open the 3D & Materials panel directly.
- In the 3D & Materials panel, select the desired 3D Type (Plane, Extrude, Revolve, Inflate). For example, if you choose Revolve, Illustrator will generate the 3D object based on revolving your selected path, similar to the process highlighted in the reference.
- Use the controls within the panel to adjust rotation, depth, axis, lighting, and materials to refine the 3D appearance of your object.
By utilizing the various 3D types in the 3D & Materials panel, you can transform simple 2D vectors into complex 3D illustrations.
