How do you troubleshoot common gradient mesh issues and errors in AI?

1 Check the mesh settings

The first thing you should do when you face a gradient mesh issue is to check the mesh settings and make sure they are appropriate for your object and design. To access the mesh settings, select your object and go to Object > Gradient Mesh. Here you can adjust the number of rows and columns, the appearance, the highlight, and the colorization method. For example, if you see gaps between the mesh points, you may need to increase the number of rows and columns or change the appearance to center. If you see color shifts or uneven transitions, you may need to change the colorization method to global or to none.

2 Use the mesh tool

The mesh tool is the main tool for creating and editing gradient meshes in AI. You can find it in the toolbar or by pressing U on your keyboard. With the mesh tool, you can add, delete, move, or recolor mesh points and handles. However, you should also be careful not to create too many mesh points or to move them too far from the original shape, as this can cause distortions or unwanted lines. To avoid these problems, you should use the mesh tool sparingly and only where you need more detail or variation. You can also use the direct selection tool (A) or the lasso tool (Q) to select and modify multiple mesh points at once.

3 Apply the mesh envelope

Another way to troubleshoot gradient mesh issues is to apply the mesh envelope to your object. The mesh envelope is a feature that allows you to warp and transform your object using a mesh grid, without affecting the original gradient mesh. To apply the mesh envelope, select your object and go to Object > Envelope Distort > Make with Mesh. Here you can choose the number of rows and columns for the envelope mesh, which should be less than the original mesh. Then you can use the envelope tool (Shift + E) to manipulate the envelope mesh and reshape your object. This can help you fix gaps, distortions, or unwanted lines by smoothing out the edges or corners of your object.

4 Use the blend tool

The blend tool is another useful tool for creating and editing gradient meshes in AI. The blend tool allows you to blend two or more objects with different colors or shapes and create a smooth transition between them. You can use the blend tool to create a gradient mesh from scratch or to enhance an existing one. To use the blend tool, select two or more objects and go to Object > Blend > Make. Then you can double-click on the blend tool in the toolbar or go to Object > Blend > Blend Options to adjust the spacing, orientation, and color mode of the blend. You can also use the direct selection tool (A) or the lasso tool (Q) to edit the blend steps and change the colors or positions of the objects.

5 Use the gradient annotator

The gradient annotator is a handy feature that allows you to see and edit the gradient stops and handles of your gradient mesh in AI. The gradient annotator appears as a line with dots and squares on your object when you select it with the gradient tool (G). You can use the gradient annotator to add, delete, move, or recolor gradient stops and handles, as well as to change the angle, direction, or type of the gradient. This can help you troubleshoot color shifts or uneven transitions in your gradient mesh by fine-tuning the gradient parameters and making them more consistent and harmonious.

6 Use the mesh torque

The mesh torque is a hidden feature that allows you to twist and rotate your gradient mesh in AI. The mesh torque can help you create more dynamic and interesting shading effects on your object, as well as to fix some minor issues or errors. To use the mesh torque, select your object with the mesh tool (U) and hold down the tilde key (~) on your keyboard. Then you can drag your cursor over your object to twist and rotate the mesh points and handles. You can also hold down the alt key (option key on Mac) to reverse the direction of the torque. You should use the mesh torque with caution and moderation, as it can also create distortions or unwanted lines if you overdo it.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?