Using Gradient Mesh & Eyedrop Tool

I am trying to use the gradient mesh tool and the eyedrop tool to create a photorealistic illustration. But for some reason whenever I create a mesh, the shape turns solid white making it impossible to select the color from the photo beneath my mesh. Why is this happening and how do i make it stop!?

Meshes cannot have a color of "None". In CS5 and above you can lower the opacity of colors, but that won't help you.
So work with two layers: one for the photo, one for the meh(es). Set the mesh-layer to outline mode. Then you can see the photo below and pick up colors. You'll have to change the view a lot from outline to preview, hide the photo etc.

Similar Messages

I'm using gradient mesh tool

Hi. I'm learning how use gradient mesh. the problem I'm having is there is one anchor point on one of my paths that keeps going back to white. I select it with the white arrow and use the eyedropper tool to replace the color, switch to a new anchor, then go back to the original anchor point and it becomes white again. I have even tried deleting the anchor point and replacing it and it encounters the same problem. Any ideas how I can fix this?

We can't know. You have not provided any screenshot, no info about what version of AI, no system info.
Mylenium

Can I use Gradient Mesh tool as a template to create a 3D looking graphic?

I am attempting to make a similar graphic with this 3D appearance , using AI CS5.1
The nature of how the gradient mesh tool appears would achieve the desired effect.
I am trying to find a way, to capture and/ or add a stroke to the gradient mesh framework (seen in red) and/or save the mesh as an object.
Suggestions most appreciated
Thank you.
~design_element

design element,
This forum is the right place to be told that there is no such way, and then some suggestions:
http://forums.adobe.com/community/illustrator/illustrator_general?view=discussions

Gradient mesh tool in a donut-type shape

Hello
I am trying to use gradient mesh in a donut-type shape. Basically I want the inner and outer circle of the donut to be black and the inner to fade to gray and back. In other words I want the gradient mest to follow the path. Now I realise that gradient mesh cannot do this. So what I did was cut my shape in four and then try to apply gradient meshes -- still it didn't work. Hopefully the below will explain what I am trying to do and what I end up doing!
Thanks in advance for your help
John

Or … if you find time to do some origami (note that it's just a related topic to entertain a little bit).
1. First, turn on Smart Guides in the View menu, set up some construction guides and draw a rectangle that has the same width as the circular guide, but 50 % of the circular guide's height. Like this:
2. Select the rectangle
3. Object > Create Gradient Mesh: 1 row, 4 columns
4. Direct select the top left mesh point
5. Double click the Scale Tool and choose Uniform Scale = 0 %
6. Now, select the second mesh point from the top left and scale it: Uniform Scale = 0 %
Repeat scaling each single mesh point until all direction lines completely scarper.
7. Direct select the lower 5 mesh points
8. Double click the Scale Tool and choose Uniform Scale = 0 %
9. The next step is to direct select mesh point B and drag it onto the circular guide's anchor point W.
10. Now, direct select mesh point D and drag it onto the circular guide's anchor point O.
11. Direct select mesh point A and drag it to the South Pole. Do the same with mesh point E. This is the result:
12. Take the Convert Anchor Point tool, click on mesh point N and Shift drag to the left until you reach the vertical guide G1.
13. With the Convert Anchor Point tool click on mesh point W and Shift drag to the bottom until you cross horizontal guide G3.
14. With the Convert Anchor Point tool click on mesh point O and Shift drag northwards until you cross horizontal guide G2.
15. Finally do the same at S, but note that there are actually two congruent mesh points, so you'll have to fiddle around a bit in order to drag out the direction lines. However, you should be able to get this:
Now take this mesh object and add it to any Symbol library, so that you can use it as a conical grad maker in future sessions where you just draw a rectangle, fill it with a linear gradient, place the symbol on top of the rectangle and execute the Object > Envelope Distort > Make with Top Object command.

Perplexed by gradient mesh

I have used gradient mesh along time. Usually it does exactly what I want it to do so I never questioned how it worked. Today, I was working on a project and I can't seem to get the mesh to do what I want.
So I went out to do some research and I can't seem to find information on this topic anywhere. It seems almost mystical. So if there is a great resource that explains the logic behind how Illustrator choose the start and end point of a mesh line, please send it to me and I apologize in advance if this info is easily found.
Here is my problem. I have a curve. If I click into the curve where I want a mesh line, the mesh line doesn't follow the shape of the object.
Here is my shape
When I use create gradient mesh, this is the mesh that I get. My question is why didn't the mesh lines follow the curve of the object. The first two columns are fine but the last column is totally messed up. Why did it choose to use the points on the outside of the curve instead as the end points? I get similar results when using the mesh tool.
As far as I can tell there is no way to change this once the mesh is created. You can't delete an end point and you can't move it without totally rebuilding your shape.
I created a simplified shape with less points and it did the exact same thing.
Does anyone have any help or advice on this topic. I don't understand why you aren't able to control where the start and end point is of a mesh line when you use the mesh tool. How does it choose a start and end point? This just perplexes me. It just seems random to me but I am sure that is just because I haven't figured the pattern yet.

Scott is absolutely correct.

Problems printing placed gradient mesh graphics

CS3 Illustrator and InDesign. Whenever a drawing is created in Illustrator using gradient mesh, and placed into an InDesign document, our printer (Ricoh Aficio 2232C with postscript) all the gradient mesh areas print from InDesign as solid black. I have tried changing every print setting I can think of, but it always comes out the same.
There are workarounds of course (like saving the illustration as a tiff) but I'd like to work with the original file if possible. Any ideas in how I can proceed in fixing this?

I wouldn't worry too much about trying to keep the original file intact. ... Of course you should, but there is nothing wrong with making a version "specially for print". It takes some discipline in that you have to edit the original file and always remember to save a flattened copy to update in your document.
You have to consider there are printers out there (the guys with the weathered faces and hot lead-resistant calluses, not the buzzing, ink-eating and paper spitting type -- okay, maybe they do that as well) with older RIP software or hardware that may have similar problems with very (very) complicated graphics. It's better to play safe than to re-make your image until it can just be processed by your own local printer.

Gradient mesh, freshly brewed coffee tutorial

http://3rdelement.com/illustrator_gradient_mesh_coffee
Hi everyone,
I have recorded a new video tutorial on how to use gradient mesh in depth. Hope it helps, have a look.

3rd,
Just a suggestion: with a more distinct varying width appearance of the pale vertical central area, especially the cup/mug may appear more curved towards the viewer.

Gradient Mesh in Flash

Is there a way to acheive the same or similar results by creating gradient meshes in Flash the same way that Illustrator offers?
I created some images in Illustrator using gradient meshes and when i bring them into flash it automatically converts my vertor art to bitmaps.
just wondering if there was a way to stylize objects in flash using something similar to a gradient mesh,
thanks.
Pat

Thaks!
Billy

Using gradients with the gradient mesh tool

So I have a basic knowledge of using the gradient mesh tool, but in my current project I need the gradients within the object to fade from black to transparent (it will be used for a one-color tshirt). I've tried to do this a couple different ways. First, I created a solid white rectangle (no stroke) then created a 1 row 1 column flat gradient mesh on it. Added the points I needed, even added the color, and the fade is exactly the shape I need, but I can't figure out how to get rid of the white, and just have the black fade to transparent. I also tried creating a rectangle with a linear gradient fill, clicked expand and selected gradient mesh, but as soon as I press ok it changes it to solid black. I included a cropped picture of what I'm talking about. All the tail feathers need to have that black fade but without the white, it needs to fade out to transparent like the other gradients around it. I put a color background behind the image to make these areas easier to see. It seems like there should be an easy solution, but I'm not sure how to do it. Any help would be really appreciated.

Edit: set all mesh point to black.
Assuming that your version of Illustrator allows it, you can get what you want by adjusting the opacity of the mesh points, something like this:

Need help with adding shadows to a shape (gradient mesh?...blur tool?)

Hello. I'm an Illustrator novice, as you will be able to tell from my question. I'm somewhat familiar with the gradient mesh tool as well as the raster effects that Illustrator CS3 offers, but I can't figure out how to use them to do what I have to do.
Here's my situation. I'm creating a logo design. It is a musical note with a flame coming off of it. I want to add the appearance of the shape having shadows (yellow for the light areas, and red for the shadowed areas).
I can't get the gradient mesh tool to work because I'm assuming the shape is too complex. I understand that I could probably just create a bunch of different gradient mesh areas and just try to mesh them together, but is this necessary? ...and is chopping my shape into mulitple sections really the best method ? (it sure doesn't seem like the logical solution).
Then I tried using Illustrators blur effects. I'm concerned to even use them for a logo design, because the "blur" effect is raster, and with a logo; it's probably not wise to use anything raster, correct? Anyway...i can't get it to work. I created a shape using the pen tool to replicate the shape of the shadow. When i blur it, the blur is visable outside the original logo shape. I don't know how to make it stop at the path edge. Does anyone know how?
If anyone can please help me here, I would be more than grateful. I realize these questions probably stupid ones, but I just can't seem to figure out how to do this, despite reading tutorials and watching numerous youtube videos on the gradient mesh tool; I can't seem to figure out how to adapt it to my situation.
Here is the image I created in Photoshop. I am trying to duplicate it in Illustrator CS3.
[URL=http://img515.imageshack.us/my.php?image=surefiremusicnote.jpg][IMG]http://img515.ima geshack.us/img515/9348/surefiremusicnote.jpg[/IMG][/URL]

Thanks Steve and Jet. I've spent the lasts 2 hours calling around to different print shops in hope that I can maybe trade labor for insight into their printing process. Problem is there seems to be a lack of 4 color offset printing companies who also offer spot colors. I really wish I had the money to take a class, but when I do, I will. I just contacted a few freelance designers who seem to have a lot of print work in their portfolios. Maybe they can teach me a thing or two, and in return I can drop them a few bucks or help them with something.
Jet, you've got me very concerned here. What do you mean by "It's not just a matter of selecting colors; it's also a matter of selecting the number of inks necessary to render them in the various reproduction methods in which the mark will be used"? Are you just stating the importance in using swatch books (Pantone)?
You mention the importance of a design being rendered in different forms (apparel, signs, promotional items..). So how should I go about doing this? Lets say a client wants a "mark" printed on all of the things you stated. Is it my duty to find out what printer they will be using before I submit design files to them? Is it the job of the designer to contact the print shop and get their profiles for different prints (glossy paper prints, matte paper prints, t-shirt printing, vehicle graphic printing)? This is all very time consuming, so should there not be extra charges when dealing with setting up different print settings for particular print jobs?
I've read the blogs of some successful logo designers. David Airey for example just submits his logo design to his client in eps form I believe (plus any requests). Should he be submitting a separate file for each intended use, or is this the job of the client and printer to work out?
You've got me extremely worried that I am going to really deal someone a bad hand here. As far as I know, this hasn't happened yet; but I'm glad you have me concerned. The sad part is that I do have a 2 year degree in graphic design and I didn't learn one thing about printing and it's association with color. The little I have learned is from the internet. I've checked out Amazon(dot)com for a good book on learning about color and print, but there seems to be a lack of recently written books (with reviews) regarding the subject. Can you recommend any?
I started doing freelance work because people would ask me to design a t-shirt for them, or a flyer for their small business. So I did. Now I have more people requesting my services. It's hard to turn down the money, especially in these times. But at the same time, I don't want to cause major headaches for anyone either. Until recently, I had no idea the complexity of the design to print process. Just 3 days ago, I purchased a monitor calibration device and my first set of Pantone guides. They should arrive shortly. I know, don't laugh.
My lack of knowledge regarding this whole thing has really got me questioning what I am doing. I figured all i really needed to know in Illustrator was to use the pen tool, since my use of Illustrator has been strictly for shaping logos.
There are just so many questions I have, and all can't be answered through a google search. I really don't like wasting your time with my ignorance, but I do appreciate your assistance. It takes some time for my little brain to absorb all of this, but I have been reading all I can from the endless tutorials and forum discussions available on the web. The problem I've found is that alongside the large amount of great info on the web, there is seemingly an equal amount of contradictory or partially inaccurate info as well. which only confuses me more. For example, most people say to design in cmyk for print (300dpi higher or vector). A rep from Pantone told me to create my designs using Pantones color swatch groups. Why would I want to start in Pantone? Don't all of their colors cost extra money (spot colors require a new printer plate and ink to be set up). Starting in cmyk seems like a more logical approach. Is he just trying to sell me Pantone?
Sorry for my redundant question regarding the concern for non-single colored paths not being able to join. You obviously answered my question with your example.
For your time, I would like to show my appreciation. If you wouldn't' mind leaving your paypal address, I can send ya a couple/few bucks. Books are great, but they can't answer all questions. Forums like this one are really very helpful and a great learning tool. I do realize I have to continue educating myself as much as possible. I'm not going to give up, that's for sure.
So, do you work for Adobe, or are you a graphic designer? Do you have a website with tutorials or a book I can buy lol?
It would be great to be able to see a walkthrough in the design process of a successful designer and the proper methods of designing for different forms of print.

How I can improve my gradient mesh tools?

Hello there,
I would like to know if I can go faster to do a photorealistic with a mesh tools, cause point by point....
It's a bit hard, or do you have a tutorials on i Can go faster to do my pictures fast as I can do it.
Thanks.

... and even if you decide not to use the plugin, make sure to read its introduction. It will teach you a lot about gradient meshes:
http://vectorboom.com/load/web_roundups/mesh_tormentor_plugin_complete_guide/13-1-0-18

Question about gradient mesh tool

Hello, I am using the gradient tool for the first time and when I touch on an object to lay a gradient, the mesh seems to choose a set of anchor points to anchor to. If I want to anchor the gradient mesh to different points, how do I change them?

You need to keep in mind that the mesh is always constucted like a table. It has 4 corners. It's possible to set these 4 corners. All the other points are somewhat dependant on them, but can be moved using the gradient mesh tool. Read the manual on that.
To set the 4 corners:
Assumind you have a path that consists of at least 5 points.
Select 4 points with the direct selection tool
OpenObject > Create gradient mesh
Enter values -> OK

Can the Gradient Mesh Tool "web" be converted to an object to create 3D looking graphics?

I am attempting to make a similar graphic with this 3D appearance , using AI CS5.1
The nature of how the gradient mesh tool appears would achieve the desired effect.
I am trying to find a way, to capture and/ or add a stroke to the gradient mesh framework (seen in red) and/or save the mesh as an object.
Suggestions, thoughts, work-arounds most appreciated.
Thank you.
~design_element

Assuming you're not going to do some very precise scientific studies, you may want to create rectangular grids and experiment with Envelopes (located in the Object menu).

Gradient mesh tool

I appologize ahead of time if this subject has already been mentioned; although, I looked and couldn't find it.
I have a regular vector object and want to convert it to a gradient mesh object, but when I try to do that it keeps saying there's "too many points". I have tried the "smooth tool" and Object\Path\Simplify and by doing that eliminated a bunch of the points, yet still to no avail. does anyone know how many points is too many points?
Thanks!
A

Don't know how many points are allowed, but I'd suggest using your path as a mask, over a simple rectangular mesh object. It will be MUCH easier to edit in the long run anyway.

Gradient Mesh Tool won't work over a standard gradient

How can I get the Mesh Tool to work over a gradient? If I place an RGB image and create a gradient mesh over it I can select each individual point and then use the color picker to pick a color underneath by clicking the placed image. However, if I create a gradient mesh over a standard gradient I can not pick up the color in the standard gradient that is below. What the color picker does is pick up the entire gradient. It doesn't put any color into the individual points of the gradient mesh.

Thanks guys for the answers. I appreciate it. I did determine that I could rasterize the gradient so it would be treated like a placed image. That breaks the vector attributes but it does work.
I swear that I tried all the modifier keys (ctrl, shift, alt, ctrl+shift, etc.) but I guess not. I was crunching out a job at 4AM and I guess I missed something. I do usually try all of them before I look for other options. I thought that I might have overlooked a switch or preference. But I couldn't find one. Using "shift" does in fact work well. Thanks for redirecting me back to the most simple solution.
It always amazes me how the mind works, although frustratingly. I bet that I tried "shift" and maybe missed the key (I don't look at the keyboard most of the time as I do it by feel) or I didn't push it all the way down. Whatever the malfunction, once my brain thought that I'd tried the "shift" key I never went back and tried it again. It just goes to show you, you need to try each potential solution several times before moving on.
Thanks for the answers. It has me rolling again and having a great time exploring the world of the gradient mesh.

Using Gradient Mesh & Eyedrop Tool

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