Creating 3D objects with a shadow creates a unique effect.

This tutorial will provide step-by-step instruction of how to create a 3D object as well as provide you with a graphic displaying the result.

When you have completed all the steps the final result should appears as follows:



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Using basic drawing tools you can create the foundation for a 3D effect.


  1. Click the Ellipse tool.
  2. Draw a circle.





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Combining fills creates a layered look for the 3D effect.


  1. Duplicate the circle.
  2. Fill the first circle with a texture.
  3. Fill the second circle with black.





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Perform the next steps to form the 3D object.


  1. Fill the black circle with radial fountain fill using the Interactive Fill tool.
  2. Adjust the center point of the fill to the top left.
  3. Make a smaller white circle for the highlight.
  4. Apply a radial fountain fill using the Interactive Fill tool.





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Using the order commands in the following steps forms the 3D appearance.


  1. Place the black circle on top of the textured circle.
  2. Place the highlight circle on top of the black circle.





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The Pick tool lets you size, stretch and manipulate objects to create a shadow.


  1. Make a duplicate of the black circle.
  2. Click the Pick tool to Squish and Stretch the black circle using the corner and side handles.
  3. Place this circle to the back of the ball to make it look like a shadow.





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Finally create a background for the 3D object.


  1. Click the Rectangle tool and draw a rectangle.
  2. Stretch and skew the rectangle using the skew handles.
  3. Place the rectangle to the back of the ball and shadow.
  4. Fill the rectangle with a Pattern tile fill. Using the interactive fill tiling controls, skew and rotate the fill pattern to create the proper perspective.





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