How do I add shading in Illustrator?

You can add shading in Illustrator using gradients, freeform gradients, and the mesh tool. Here's a breakdown of each method:

Using Gradients for Shading

Gradients offer a flexible way to create smooth transitions between colors, which can be used to simulate light and shadow.

• Linear Gradients: A gradual blend between two or more colors in a straight line.
• Radial Gradients: Colors transition outward from a central point.
• Adjusting Gradients:
  • Click, drag, push and pull various components on the gradient adjuster to achieve the effect you want. This allows fine-tuning of color stops and transition midpoints.
• Application: Apply gradients to shapes by selecting them and using the gradient tool (G) or the gradient panel.

Leveraging Freeform Gradients (Illustrator 2019+)

For more complex shading, especially on irregular shapes, freeform gradients are highly effective.

• What are they? Instead of using color stops along a line, you can place them anywhere within a shape.
• How to use them: Select your shape, choose the freeform gradient option, and click within the shape to add color points.
• Customization:
  • Adjust the color of each point.
  • Move the points to control the direction and intensity of the shading.
  • Add more points for detailed shading effects.

Using the Mesh Tool for Advanced Shading

The mesh tool provides the most control when shading complex forms.

• How to use the mesh tool (U):
  1. Select the shape to shade.
  2. Choose the mesh tool (shortcut key is 'U').
  3. Click on the object to add mesh points.
  4. Add color to these mesh points.
  5. Adjust these points to finely control the light and shadow effects.
• Benefits: This creates a flexible grid of color which allows for very accurate light and shadow effects.
• Best use cases: Organic shapes, realistic illustrations, and objects needing very precise highlight/shadow areas.

Tool	Use Case	Customization
Linear Gradient	Simple transitions across an object	Color stops, midpoints, direction
Radial Gradient	Circular or spherical objects	Color stops, midpoints, center position
Freeform Gradient	Complex, organic shapes with non-linear light and shadow	Color points, placement and color control
Mesh Tool	Precise, complex shading on any shape	Mesh points, color of each point

In summary, for adding shading in Illustrator, explore the use of traditional gradients for simple effects and freeform gradients (Illustrator 2019+) and mesh tools for more complex scenarios. Experiment to understand which works best for your specific needs.