Designing a 3D Vase Using Illustrator CS2

See how you can create a 3D vase in 5 minutes using3D Revolve Tool in Illustrator CS2.

1. Creating a Path

First you have to crate a path as shown below using the Pen Tool. Navigate to the menu Effect > 3D > Revolve




3D Revolve Option

3D Revolve Option window will appear (see he image below). If the lower part of the window is not visible, click on More Options. Leave the settings as default. But you need to add an extra light spot by clicking on the New Light icon and drag it the lower left corner. Enter 35 for Blend Steps. The maximum Blend Steps is 256. Higher Blend Steps will provide better rendering quality but will result in the increase of file size.












2. Making the Flower Symbol

Now, using the Ellipse tool draw a flower. For creating a new symbol, drag the flower Symbols Library Palette. It the palette is not visible, then press Ctrl+Shift+F11 or move to Windows > Symbols to show Symbols.





3. Creating the Map Art

Select the vase. Go to the Appearance Palette and double click on the 3D Revolve effect icon (f) to change the 3D Revolve Options.
The 3D Revolve Option appears. Then, click on the Map Art button.

Map Art Option

To preview the progress so far click Preview option. In the Surface area at the top, use the arrow buttons to mark the surface where you want to Map Art. On the surface you selected a ed wire frame will be seen. Here it is 4 of 5. Pick the symbol you have created from the dropdown list the Symbol. You resize and position the symbol based on your preference. You can also create multi-surface Map Art by choosing the Surface and then the Symbol. Click OK when you are satisfied with the outcome.



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Final Image

With just 3 steps we have created a simple 3D Vase with Illustrator with the 3D Revolve Tool.