Content for Module 11

3D Effects

3D Effects3D effects are covered towards the end of chapter 12 in the older books.
Illustrator has 3 types:The Extrude&Bevel effect, that creates an appeareance of a 3 dimensional object based on a flat shape; Revolve works sweeping a line around an axis, and Rotate, that uses the Z axis to rotate artwork in 3D space.
They are slightly covered on pages 361-365.

Help page for 3D Effects from Adobe >
Video: @ Linkedin: the 3 types of 3D Effects, HERE (long link)

Extrude



extrudeAfter applying a 3D effect, what you have is still a 2D path.

Open the Appeareance panel to check elements and be able to re-edit the effect.


Expand Appearance


Some times you might want to work on more detail on each face to the 3D object: you can transform the appearance of a 3D effect into real geometry by applying Object<Expand Appearance.


revolve effectThe revolve effect is very effective to create certain types of volumes, that are structured around one central axis (cilinders, bowls, bottles...)
Remember that what gives the color to the 3D object in a revolve effect is the STROKE color, not the fill.

Video: Understanding the 3D Revolve effect
Video: Using the revolve effect to create a can of soda
Video: Editing a revole effect
Video: How to map a logo or artwork to a 3D object effect


 Revolve o[tions dialog box]

When using a 3D effect, investigate the Revolve Dialog window, so you understand the different options.
Remember to release the whole Shading panel inside the dialog window by clicking on "More options" on the lower menu.The Fewer options button will close it back.
Click on Preview to see what you are designing, and drag carefully the upper cube to change the position of the object in 3D space.

Links to videos

From a great sequence of videos on 3D effects, Illustrator CC 2015, with Deke McLleland:

The 3 kinds of 3D effects in Illustrator, HERE
Undertanding the Axes in 3D: Pitch, Yah and Roll, HERE
Create lighting inside the 3D Effect-panel, HERE
Create a soda can with a 3D Revolve effect, HERE
Map a logo or other artwork to a 3D Effect, HERE
Enhance your 3D can effect with some dewy drops, HERE

Combining strokes with a 3D effect in a very interesting volume, HERE

Combine 3D Effect with blend, Tuts in Youtube HERE
How to map artwork to the face of a 3D effect object and create in between objects!

3D Revolve with Mapping and invisible geometry, HERE
Old version of Illsutrator but interesting effect


Tutorials

Green Viscous text effect: great highlight effects with gradients and pathfinder shapes, at Vector-tutsplus HERE

Vibrant 3D type treatment with a pixelated font, at Vector-tutsplus HERE

A variety of Beveled lettering, at Vector-tutsplus HERE

Create a 3D cherry, at Vector-tutsplus, HERE

Create a Textured Pool table, at Vector-tutsplus, HERE

Create a detailed baseball, at Vector-tutsplus, HERE

3D effect, the "hard" way, Create a vector Film Slate icon, vector.tutsplus.com HERE

General notes