Gradients in Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator

🕑 This lesson will take about 13 minutes

In this lesson, you will learn how to use the Gradient Tool in Adobe Illustrator. A gradient is a gradual transition from one colour to another colour. We will look at how to use three different types of gradients:

  • Linear gradient - colour changes in a straight line

  • Radial gradient - colour changes in a circular pattern

  • Freeform gradient - colours change at different points in a shape

Gradients can combine multiple colours or different shades of the same colour.

Linear gradient

Example of a linear gradient.

Radial gradient

Example of a radial gradient.

Example of a freeform gradient.

The video below explains each type of gradient and shows how you can create these gradients.

YouTube blocked at school? Watch the video here instead.