Adobe Illustrator Tutorial - How to Create Custom Wave Typography

Introduction

Creating custom wave typography in Adobe Illustrator is a fun and engaging process that allows you to experiment with shapes and gradients to achieve unique text effects. In this tutorial, we will walk you through the steps to design a vibrant wave text effect featuring the word "swirl."

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create Your Text: Begin by selecting the Type Tool in Adobe Illustrator and type the word "swirl." Next, change the font to Blenny Thigh, which can be downloaded via the Adobe Creative Cloud app.
Outline the Text: Select the word you just typed and convert it into shapes by pressing Command (Ctrl) + Shift + O. This outlines the text and allows for further manipulation.
Duplicate the Text: Using the duplicate function, create two copies of the outlined text and position them below the original word. Resize these copies to fit your artboard.
Create a Compound Path: With all three text shapes selected, navigate to the Object menu and select Make Compound Path.
Apply the Wave Effect: Open the Effect menu and choose the Wave effect. Experiment with the settings until the text achieves a satisfying wave appearance. Once completed, confirm the changes by going to the Object menu and selecting Expand Appearance.
Modify Colors: Change the color of the wave text to white. Then head to the Object menu again and select Offset Path. Adjust the settings to create a similar shape behind the text.
Fill in Gaps: If you notice any holes or cracks in the newly created shape, utilize the Pathfinder panel. First, click on Merge, and then select the Unite feature to fill in any gaps.
Add a 3D Effect: Duplicate the black shape and move it slightly to the left while holding the Shift key. Scale the duplicated shape downward to create a 3D effect.
Blend Shapes: To enhance the transition between the two shapes, choose both shapes and navigate to Object > Blend > Blend Options. Set the spacing to Specified Steps with a value of 100. Afterwards, go back to Blend Options and select Make.
Expand and Unite: With the newly created blended shapes selected, expand them and then unite all the shapes together using the Pathfinder panel's Unite feature.
Add a Gradient: Select the white text and apply a Linear Gradient. Incorporate three colors: orange, pink, and yellow (in the middle). For those interested in pre-made gradient palettes, you can find them in my Etsy link located in the description.
Add Strokes: Finally, enhance the text with small white strokes. You can adjust the width of the strokes using the Width Tool, especially in the middle part of the text.

Conclusion

And there you have it! You have successfully created a dynamic wave 3D text effect in Adobe Illustrator. Don't forget to share your creations, and let me know what other tutorials you’d like to see!

Keywords

Adobe Illustrator
Wave Typography
Gradient
Blenny Thigh
Make Compound Path
Offset Path
Pathfinder
3D Effect

FAQ

1. What font is used in this tutorial?

The tutorial uses the Blenny Thigh font, which can be downloaded from the Adobe Creative Cloud app.

2. How can I create a compound path in Illustrator?

Select your desired shapes, then go to the Object menu and choose Make Compound Path.

3. What adjustments can I make to get my text looking wavy?

You can play with the settings in the Wave effect menu until you achieve the desired appearance.

4. How do I apply a gradient to my text?

Select the text, click on the gradient option, and customize your colors as needed.

5. Can I use other colors for the gradient?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different color combinations based on your design preferences.