Adding Texture in Illustrator: 3 Creative Ways

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. First Way: Adding Texture Using the Grain Effect
   • Step 1: Make a Copy of the Shape
   • Step 2: Open the Texture Panel
   • Step 3: Select the Grain Effect
   • Step 4: Adjust the Options and Apply the Effect
   • Step 5: Blend with the Shape Using Transparency Options
3. Second Way: Adding Texture Using an Image Overlay
   • Step 1: Find and Copy the Image
   • Step 2: Paste the Image in Illustrator
   • Step 3: Adjust Tracing Options
   • Step 4: Expand and Remove White Elements
   • Step 5: Sample a Color from the Illustration and Apply the Texture Overlay
4. Third Way: Adding Texture Using Grain or Noise Brushes
   • Step 1: Create a New Brush Shape
   • Step 2: Customize the Brush Settings
   • Step 3: Use the Brush Tool and Apply the Texture
   • Step 4: Mask the Texture with a Shape
   • Step 5: Adjust Transparency and Colors
5. Conclusion

Adding Texture in Illustrator: 3 Creative Ways

Illustrator is a powerful tool for creating vector illustrations, and adding texture to your designs can take them to the next level. In this article, we will explore three different ways to add texture in Illustrator, including using the grain effect, image overlays, and grain or noise brushes. Each method has its own unique approach and benefits, so let's dive in and discover how to bring depth and visual interest to your illustrations.

First Way: Adding Texture Using the Grain Effect

The grain effect is a versatile tool in Illustrator that allows You to add texture to your shapes. Here's how you can use it to enhance your illustrations:

Step 1: Make a Copy of the Shape

To apply the grain effect, start by making a copy of the shape you want to add texture to. This way, you can preserve the original shape while experimenting with different textures.

Step 2: Open the Texture Panel

Next, go to the Effect panel and open the Texture options. This will enable you to access a variety of texture effects that you can apply to your shape.

Step 3: Select the Grain Effect

In the Texture panel, select the Grain option. This will display a preview of how the selected texture will appear on your shape. You can also adjust the settings on the right-HAND side to customize the texture effect further.

Step 4: Adjust the Options and Apply the Effect

Play around with the different options available, such as adjusting the intensity, contrast, and grain Type. This experimentation will help you achieve the desired texture effect. Once you are happy with the result, click the OK button to apply the texture effect to your shape.

Step 5: Blend with the Shape Using Transparency Options

To make the texture blend with the shape seamlessly, go to the Transparency tab. Depending on the look you want to achieve, choose from overlay, multiply, or screen blending modes. Overlay works well for a subtle texture, while multiply and screen can create increased contrast or lighting effects, respectively. You can also adjust the opacity of the shape to fine-tune the texture effect.

Adding the grain effect to your illustrations can elevate them from flat and clean to visually intriguing and natural. The versatility and control provided by this method make it one of the most pleasing ways to add texture in Illustrator.

Second Way: Adding Texture Using an Image Overlay

Another creative way to add texture in Illustrator is by using an image overlay. Let's explore the steps involved:

Step 1: Find and Copy the Image

Start by finding a suitable texture image that you would like to overlay onto your illustration. You can search for paper textures or any other texture that fits your vision. Once you have found the desired image, right-click on it, copy it, and bring it into Illustrator.

Step 2: Paste the Image in Illustrator