How-To Create 3D Type in Adobe Illustrator Tutorial

Introduction

In this tutorial, I'll guide you through the process of giving your type a striking 3D drop shadow effect using Adobe Illustrator's appearance window. The technique is not only easy to execute but also yields an impressive result. I recently picked up this method and found it powerful yet simple, and I'm eager to share it with you.

Step-by-Step Guide

Required Font

The font used in this tutorial is called "Bias" (or "Bas"). It's a free font that you can download — I'll provide a link in the description.

Appearance Window Setup

Open the Appearance Window: Navigate to Window > Appearance. The appearance window allows for non-destructive editing, enabling you to turn effects on or off without altering the original design permanently.

Create Your Type and Select

Type Your Text: Using the Text tool (T in the keyboard shortcut), type out your desired text.
Select Your Text: Use the Selection tool (black arrow, V shortcut) to select your type. Make sure the type is selected before making any changes in the appearance window.

Configuring Fills

Set Initial Fill and Stroke: Ensure the stroke is set to 'None' unless you want a stroke on your type. Apply an orange fill or any color of your choice.
Add a New Fill: Click the "Add New Fill" button in the lower-left corner of the appearance window. This will create two fills: one on top and one on the bottom.
Modify Second Fill: Select the bottom fill and change its color to black (or another color if preferred).

Adding 3D Effect

Apply Transform Effect: Click the FX button (Add New Effect) and choose Distort & Transform > Transform.
Configure Transform Settings:
- Enable Preview: Check the "Preview" box to see real-time changes.
- Set Move Values: For an optimal result, set "Horizontal" and "Vertical" move values to small increments, such as 0.5 pixels each. Adjust based on your need.
- Set Copies: Set the number of copies to 50 (or experiment with this number for different effects).

Fine-Tuning

Check Edges: Ensure a smooth transition by adjusting move values and copies. Reduce jagged edges by using smaller move values (e.g., 0.25 pixels) and increasing copies accordingly (e.g., 100).
Modify as Needed: You can always go back to the appearance panel to adjust or turn off the effects.

Flexibility

One of the strengths of using the appearance panel is that the effects are fully editable. Simply selecting the text lets you change the color, style, and other attributes without losing the applied effects.

Live Text Editing

Interestingly, the text remains fully editable. Any changes to the text will automatically apply the effects, maintaining the 3D appearance.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts

I hope this tutorial helps you explore the versatility of the appearance panel in Adobe Illustrator. This feature allows for flexible, non-destructive editing, making it a fantastic tool for designers. If you found this guide useful, please like, favorite, and subscribe for more design tutorials.

Keywords

Adobe Illustrator
3D Drop Shadow
Appearance Window
Non-destructive Editing
Transform Effect
Fill and Stroke
Live Text Editing

FAQ

What is the appearance window in Adobe Illustrator?

The appearance window allows you to apply and manage effects and attributes to objects in a non-destructive manner. This means you can toggle effects on and off without permanently altering your original design.

Can I use any font for this 3D effect?

Yes, you can use any font. The tutorial uses the "Bias" font, but the technique works with any typeface.

How do I ensure smooth edges for the 3D effect?

Ensure smooth edges by using small move values (like 0.25 pixels) and increasing the number of copies until the transitions appear smooth.

Can I edit the text after applying the 3D effect?

Yes, the text remains fully editable. Any changes to the text will automatically apply the pre-set appearance effects.

How do I switch off the 3D effect if needed?

You can toggle the applied effects on and off using the eyeball icon next to each effect in the appearance panel.

Does the move value depend on the unit of measurement?

No, the move value doesn't depend on the unit of measurement. However, using small values ensures smoother and more refined 3D effects.