Creating the Rays of Light

In this part of Adobe Illustrator tutorial we will create the nice rays of light in order to emphasize the sparkling effect. Grab the Ellipse Tool (L) from the Tool Panel and create a circle. Make sure to create a circle larger then our disco ball.

Now, grab the Line Tool (/) from the Tool Panel and create a vertical line, as it’s shown in the picture below. For straight dragging don’t forget to hold the Shift key on the keyboard. Align the circle and the line using the Horizontal Align Center under the Align Panel.

Select just the line and under Object select Transform > Rotate. Set the Rotation Angle to any value you want. The goal is to create uneven parts of the circle which we’ll turn into the rays of light.

For the purposes of this tutorial we will enter 53 for the Rotation Angle. Hit the Copy button. It will create another line rotated at 53 degrees. Hitting the shortcut Shift + D on the keyboard we will repeat the step and create another. Keep doing this until you have created multiple ‘rays’.

You should end up with something like this.

Select all the lines and the circle and under the Pathfinder Panel hit the Divide button. It will divide the circle.

At this point we will change the background to black, in order to be able to see what are we doing better. We will apply a radial gradient (white – white (Opacity 0%) ) to our divided circle. Grab the Gradient Tool (G) from the Tool Panel and make sure to drag the gradient from the center of the circle. You should end up with something like this.

Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl / Cmd + G) the circle. Select one of the elements and then select the Gradient Tool (G) from the Tool Panel. The gradient slider will appear. Just grab it and move it a bit in order to offset the gradient.

Repeat this step for a few other parts of the circle. Until you end up with something like this.

Select a few parts of the circle and Group them (Ctrl / Cmd + G). Rotate the group little bit.

You can also use different gradients for the light. Now place our disco ball on the top of the ray of light we have just created.

Grab the Pen Tool (P) from the Tool Panel and draw the shape as is pictured below.

Apply a linear gradient.

This will be the ray of light that’s coming from the sparkling part of our disco ball. Create a few more rays.

And we are done!

Conclusion

There are many different color combinations that can be used to create a shiny disco ball. Feel free to experiment with colors and always make sure to blend them nicely, you might be surprised with the results. Light reflection is quite important in illustrations like this. It emphasizes the depth and gives us the impression of the shine and glow.

If you happen to have any questions feel free to post it in the comment section. Thank you for reading!

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Adobe Illustrator is a powerful tool that you can create fluffy, vague, sparkling, gelatinous, glossy, glittery, retro and revolutionary effects with. Creating a particular text effect in Illustrator is not that difficult now; thanks to the availability of huge number of tutorials that guide you through each step.

Here we have gathered a collection of around 50 amazingly helpful tutorials that let you create breathtaking typographic effects in Illustrator. Some of them also use Photoshop to give the text effect its fully refined look. Let’s have a look at this collection.

Text Effects in Illustrator

Create a Poster Theme Illustration in Illustrator
This following tutorial lets you create beautiful poster theme illustrations simply, using Adobe Illustrator.

How to Create a Neon Text Effect Using Adobe Illustrator
Create appealing and tempting neon text effects by using Gradient Mesh, 3D Modeling, Art Brushes and Transparency palette. Let’s begin!

How to Create Colorful Neon Text with Adobe Illustrator
This tutorial teaches you some quick tips on how to create a colorful neon text effect. In this tutorial, you will learn the use of thick font and the Round Any Corner Script to create letter shapes and other techniques to create neon text effect.

Creating a custom Font : Understanding the Dynamics of Blend Tool
This tutorial is designed to help you create a custom Font, while at the same time accepting the dynamics of the Blend Tool.

How to Create a Colorful, 3D Text Effect
This tutorial is shared here to let you learn the technique of creating some colorful and appealing 3D texts.

Create an Airport Time Table Type Effect
In this quick tutorial, you will learn to create an airport timetable text effect. Creating such an effect is ideal for websites, posters and even logos.

How to Create a 3D Sketch Text Effect
This tutorial lets you learn how you can play with the 3D options in Illustrator to create 3D letters while also transforming them into a sketch text. Add any color that you like as the transparency allows you to place it on any background.

Create a Jar Illustration and Splashy, Purple Text Effect
This tutorial walks you through creating a jar illustration with a splashy purple text effect. You will see how different layered shapes and opacities are used in this tutorial and how the paths and the Pathfinder tools are used to enhance the result and give your text dimension and style.

Create Colorful, Layered Paper Type in Illustrator
Let’s create some vividly colored illustrations with layered text and ribbons. Here, you will learn to use Illustrator effects expansively to optimize your work.

How To Create a Cool Chrome Text Effect in Illustrator
The following tutorial helps you get the skills required to create cool retro chrome text effects by using Illustrator. This tutorial teaches you all the steps from beginning to end.

How to Create a Retro Style Textured Logo
This tutorial helps you learn to create a retro vector seal logo by using Illustrator with Ryan Quintal. This extremely easy to follow tutorial lets you create an awesome final effect.

How to Create a Paper Style Alphabet using Illustrator 3D
With this, you will learn to create a paper style alphabet and the shadows of them by using 3D modeling. This tutorial is perfect for creating logo designs.

Create a Chalkboard Type Treatment
This tutorial lets you create amazing chalkboard type treatments by using some gradients, a bristle brush, and some freebies from Vector Mill.

Learn to Create a Variety of Script Lettering
This tutorial showcases three unique approaches to create different script lettering styles. The tutorial starts with a simple basic script and leads you to more advanced techniques.

How to Create an Entangled Lettering Illustration
Creating a perfect entangled lettering illustration is what you will learn in this tutorial. You can also learn casting shadows and highlighting through abstract color shapes.

Create a Variety of 3D Lettering Effects for Poster Design
This tutorial teaches you different techniques of creating simple 3D lettering effects in the context of poster design.

Create a Green Viscous Text Effect
This tutorial helps you learn the use of existing font and 3D tools of illustrator to add dimension and create a green viscous text effect.

How To Create a Simple Sticker Text Effect
This tutorial showcases the technique of using text and the Round Any Corner script to create a simple sticker effect. Such text effects can be used in graphics, including shapes and symbols.

Create a Furry Calligram in Illustrator
Here you will learn to create your own calligram by manipulating a typeface, rendering fur and by adding dog features and various details.

Learn to Create a Variety of Beveled Lettering
This tutorial is designed to teach you different techniques of creating beveled lettering styles. The tutorial starts with the least complex and moves on to the most polished and professional look.

Cool Typography with the Blend Tool in Illustrator
Here you will use Illustrator’s Blend tool first and then use Photoshop for some final retouches in order to create cool typography.

Create a Top Gun Badge on Illustrator
Here, you will see how to create a vector badge and then make it look more appealing by adding some features. Simple to execute.

Tron Legacy Tutorial
In this tutorial, you will use Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop and Cinema 4D. This is an interesting tutorial that helps you learn all three of these programs simultaneously.

Vintage Badge in Illustrator and Photoshop
In this tutorial you will see how to create a vintage badge by using Illustrator and Photoshop. Take a look!

Grungy 3D Text In Illustrator
Use Illustrator to create appealing grungy 3D text with some smart shadow techniques.

Create a Silky Ribbon Text Effect
This tutorial teaches you to use the Pen and Gradient tools in order to create a swirling ribbon text effect. You can also use this effect to create different shapes and scrolls.

How to Create a Glassy Text Effect in Illustrator
In this tutorial, you will see how to create a splendid glassy text effect by using Illustrator. Here you will learn some clever techniques to enhance your skills.

Create a Mummy Text Effect
This guide helps you give your text some classic mummy treatment by using a few gradients and the Appearance panel.

Create a Polished Raised-Type Treatment
Learn to create a polished, lifted-type treatment by using the Appearance panel, some gradients and transforms. You can also apply the treatment to other fonts and vector elements as well.

Create a Reusable Retro Type Treatment
Here you will see how to create retro type treatments by using some powerful Illustrator features and texture effects, Warp effects, and some simple layering.

Create a Glossy Smooth Text Effect
This guide lets you discover how to create a glossy smooth text effect by using multiple fills and strokes with various blending modes and different opacity settings.

3D Golden Text Effect
This tutorial will be great for beginners who want to create professional 3D text effects in Adobe illustrator. Here, you will see how to create text using 3D extrude and the techniques to clean up the broken shapes and then apply glow to the 3D text.

Golden Text with Diamonds
This tutorial showcases the use of the appearance palette and scatter brushes to create this stylized text with diamonds. Several other useful techniques will also be taught in this tutorial that will help you in your future endeavors. So let’s get started!

How to Add Decorative Glamour to Your Ordinary Script Font
Learn to add glamour to your ordinary scripts in simple to follow steps and add some extra sparkle to your ordinary font.

How to Make a Flesh Ripping Zombie Type Treatment
Follow the artist’s steps and create flesh ripping zombie characters and type treatments for this blood-curdling illustration.

Creating an Environmentally Friendly Green Type Treatment
This tutorial lets you create some cool and soothing environmentally friendly green type treatments that you can apply to your different projects.

How to Create Candy-Cane Typography With Photoshop and Illustrator
Learn how to craft some lip smacking Candy-Cane type by using Illustrator and Photoshop and create the appeal that you always wanted to harness.

How To Create Detailed Gothic Linework Typography
This step by step explanation demonstrates the design process for an amazing gothic typographic design.

Multi-Stroke Tips for Adobe Illustrator
In this tutorial, learn to add multiple strokes to objects in Illustrator using the Appearance panel.

Produce a Glowing Neon Open Sign Using Illustrator CS5
Here you will see how neon tubes are produced in the Illustrator world by simply altering a path and adding stroke colors with Gaussian blur. This will allow you to produce our own glowing neon open sign in Illustrator CS5.

Create a Bubble Text Effect
Use different tools such as Ellipse, Rectangle, Rectangular Grid and Twirl along with some basic effects to create this Bubble Text Effect.

Stylish text effect tutorial using Illustrator
Here you will see how to use Illustrator to create stylish and elegant text effects with a subtle vintage look that can be applied to any specific typeface.

Create a Simple Blood Text Effect
This is an extremely easy to follow tutorial that will teach you how you can create simple blood text effect.

Create a folded paper text effect
Create a simple folded paper text effect by watching this tutorial and also see how to improvise the final look.

Make Grunge Type with Live Trace and the Pathfinder
This tutorial aids you in creating a grunge type effect by simply creating a vector texture with Live Trace first and then applying it to the text.

How to Create a Piped Frosting Text
This tutorial will help you learn how to create a paste text effect. You will also learn the use of different tools to create the text effect that can be used to demonstrate a piped frosting effect.

How to Create a Gummy Text Effect
Here you will see how to use the Offset Path function and various other coloring techniques to create cool and cute gummy text effects.

How to Create a Zodiac Themed Graphic Style
This particular tutorial helps you learn the basic techniques to create a complex graphic style, using only the Appearance palette and commands from the Effect menu. This lets you create designs based on zodiac signs. Let’s get started!

How to Create Smoky Brushes and Type In Illustrator CS4
Here you will see how the smoky brushes and type are created in Illustrator. You will be amazed to see the realistic results.

You may also want to consider our previous posts:

• Vector Illustration: 60+ Illustrator Tutorials, Tips and Best Practices
• 80 Best-Of Adobe Illustrator Tutorials, Brushes, .EPSs and Resources
• 53 Killer Photoshop Illustrator Effects and Tutorials
• 50 Excellent 3D Adobe Illustrator Tutorials
• 50 Excellent Adobe Illustrator Video Tutorials

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3ds MAX, Maya, Zbrush, RealFlow & VRay are all highly regarded software solutions that not only model but also animate, render and create realistic designs. They produce mesmerizing results that can take nearly anything that you can imagine, and transform it into a breathtaking reality. These programs have become something of a magic wand for graphic designers as they are equipped to create near life-like creations. Effectively widening the field of possibilities for what designers can achieve.

This post is a compilation of some of the best 3D Modeling tutorials made using various programs like 3ds MAX, Maya, Zbrush, RealFlow & VRay, so that you can enhance your skills in the third dimension.

The Tutorials

Creating Washroom in Maya

You will learn how to create a Washroom in Maya. This tutorial will be more helpful to those who have basic knowledge of Maya.

Making of Ganesha – God of Wisdom

This is again exclusively a Maya tutorial in which the author has shared his take on creating his Lord’s idol. Very detailed and interesting article.

Making of 3D Render Hover Before The Storm

A very useful tutorial which covers the making of an architectural visualization using Maya, RealFlow, Mudbox and VRay together.

Project Overview: Sheikh Zayed

This tutorial focuses on creating a Portrait that was modeled in Maya, and other parts were covered using ZBrush and Mental Ray.

Create a Grand Piano in Maya Lessons

Learn how to do the modeling of a Grand Piano in this detailed tutorial. You will model the body(exterior) as well as the interior, strings, pins, dampers, hammers and guides.

Modeling The “Adam Syringe” From “Bioshock”

If you are a video game lover, you will enjoy this tutorial a lot. Learn how to create a high-res model of the “ADAM Syringe” from the popular video game “Bioshock”.

Modelling a Hand in 3D – A quick and effective guide

Enjoy this tutorial on how to make a fantastic hand model. Although this tutorial is in Maya, it can also be replicated in any other 3D program.

Video Tutorial: Head Modeling in Maya

In the previous tutorial you learned to model a hand. Now learn how to model a head with this tutorial.

Occlusion Shading Opacity Mapped Geometry In Maya

Possess the knowledge of how to create a custom shading network inside Maya. The author has further used PaintFX and Mentalray.

Facial Rigging – Maya Tutorial

This is a video tutorial that shows you an easy and understandable way of how to rig a face.

Rigging a Cartoon Bottle using Maya

In this tut, the author shows us his methodology to rigg a cartoon bottle using Maya with joints, locators, custom attributes, set driven keys, expressions and constraints.

Interior Design – Modeling a Room

In this tutorial the author shows us how to model a room. This is an important tutorial for the architects and interior designers.

Model, Texture, and Render a Bathroom Interior Design with Maya

Once again this is another important tutorial for interior designers as they will learn how to give life to a bathroom interior using Maya.

Making of Dragon

Here the artist has created a lovely Dragon in Maya, sculpted and detailed in ZBrush, textured and composed in Photoshop.

Video Tutorial: Realistic Glass of Water

In this video tutorial the artist demonstrates how to create a realistic glass of water (liquid) with Maya Mental ray materials.

Procedural Modeling with MEL Script in Maya

For those who want to learn MEL Script in Maya, this tutorial can be of great help.

How to Model a Low Poly Building for Games – Maya Tutorial

This tutorial works well for both beginners as well as intermediates. Learn how to model a low poly building for game designs.

Character Animation Fundamentals with Maya—Analyzing a walk

In this look at character animation fundamentals you can actually clear your Maya basics. This tutorial is made from scratch to animation so you can brush up your skills.

Super Toon Sample

Learn how to create Maya cartoon character animation through Maya 3d modeling.

Maya: Simple 2D Eyelid Rigs

Learn how to create eyelid rigs that emote as well.

Making of Little Bunny

Create a wierd and interesting little Bunny with the help of this tutorial.

Hair Polygon Modeling Tutorial

This tutorial is more for beginners and it throws light on how to create hair polygon modeling.

Making of Don’t Beat Me

This is a vast tutorial with multiple programs used along with Maya. The author has also used Mudbox and ZBrush. So you will get opportunity to check out your skills on that software too.

Spider Texturing In Maya

This tutorial focuses on texturing a spider for an organic model.

3D Rendering – Render Layers – Maya Tutorial

Learn how to render layers in Maya through this turorial.

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One source of inspiration for many in the graphic design field are the wallpapers that they use to customize their desktops. These daily doses of skillful designs act as reminders to start our days off on the right, creative foot. One popular theme that tends to be prevalent in many of the dazzling designs one finds in the scores of wallpapers that are available online is the grunge.

In this post, we have gathered an impressive array of slightly grungy wallpapers that can decorate your desktop in some inspired designs. Beyond that, we have collected a handful of both tutorials and some textures that can assist you in creating some of your own grungy wallpapers. So once you have gotten inspired from looking through the showcase, you can get started on some original designs with the resources at the end of the post.

The Wallpapers

Reach For The Future Original by Destin8x

The Day We Met For Coffee by j3_concepts

Nostalgia Wallset by Thinker

(RED)servoir dogs by egolatra

Ain’t, Not by VictorC

Texture Mario by lozzaaa

Everything Sucks Again by skryingbreath

Paper World by kiriapurv

blue_skull by int_alireza

DnB overkill by Merx

Sunny Watermelon by cocacolagirlie

Remorse Is for the Dead by vhm-alex

Eerie Face [Grunge] by ToXin23

human by Osten3speN

Dirty | SpeedArt | By Bushido

Cheguevara wallpaper by Art Fabrick

Grunge ME by kaka420ish

Apple 2 by RezaPTO

Pure Dream | Desktop by purebullcrap

cran 2 by salma3444

Time Slip by JustEvolve

Gotta Rust ‘em All by MangoTangoFox

My Graffiti by MawDesigns

JSW by Blackafino

Morning Glory by Flarss

Conception by bayernownz1995

England wallpaper by Ichigo–sama

Soldier Concept Wallpaper by bpsola

oceania – mac wallpaper. by Aivre

Wallpaper 01 by Mysstika

Mortal Kombat Ninja Wallpaper by Poser96

Mac Wallpaper by 1991-prezent

Rise by Franz Jeitz

Crow Wallpaper by Tiger-tyger

wallpaper – white as snow 02+ by stuntarts

Tutorials

Create a Spectacular Grass Text Effect in Photoshop

Love Wallpaper for the desktop

The Dark Knight Grunge Wallpaper

Arctic Monkeys Photoshop Wallpaper Tutorial

Design an Extreme Grunge Wallpaper

How To Create a Retro Grunge Apple Wallpaper in 5 Easy Steps in Photoshop

Create an Intensely Grungy Wallpaper

Grunge Textures

Grunge Extreme Volume 2: 10 High Quality Free Grunge Textures

Tileable Burnt Orange Industrial Grunge Textures

4 Free High Resolution Grunge Textures

20 Simple and Subtle Grunge Textures

9 Tileable Grunge Textures

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Designing an icon set may sound like an easy thing to do but in actuality it is much easier said than done. Many designers end up with a disaster, while some more matured and experienced designers successfully meet the expectations and deliver.

Generally speaking, a designer needs to learn the basic principles of icon design first, and must be aware of the significance of and function that icons perform on web sites and in user interfaces. In order to create useful and effective icons, one must know the difference between icon and logo designs; and most importantly, how to use your creativity to incorporate the characteristics we need in the icon successfully.

In the end of 2009, we had compiled a post on Illustrator Icon Tutorials, and since we have noticed that there are lots more outstanding tutorials on designing beautiful and attractive icon sets that have been shared by experienced designers all over the world. So, we have decided to bring you all another collection of Adobe Illustrator Icon tutorials.

Illustrator Icon Design Tutorials

How to make a realistic vintage typewriter in Illustrator
In this tutorial you will learn to craft your very own vintage typewriter with a realistic finish in Illustrator.

Create a Super Glue and a Paint Tube Icon
In the following tutorial you will learn how to create a super glue and a paint tube icon. These shiny icons are simple to create, we’ll cover a complete workflow, and show you techniques that will speed up your work process.

How to Create a Suitcase Icon in Adobe Illustrator
In the following tutorial you will learn to create a suitcase icon, suitable for a travel oriented site, or vacation brochure. Grab hold of your vector tools and let’s get to building.

Create simple but effective Weather Icons in adobe illustrator
In this tutorial you will learn how to create some attractive little weather icons in Adobe Illustrator.

How to Make a Detailed Printer Icon Using Illustrator
In this icon design tutorial, we will construct a desktop printer icon that is rich in detail. Ready? Perhaps you should serve yourself a cup of coffee and grab a bag of chips to pass the hunger while we draw our icon (it could take a while to finish)!

Create a Jeans Pocket Icon Using Adobe Illustrator
In this tutorial you will learn many useful and necessary techniques, such as the creation of vector texture, working with the Scatter Brush, using the Graphic Style palette, creating scuffs and creases on the fabric, using the Gradient Mesh, and more. Believe me, it’s worth your attention.

Create a Nice Award Medal Icon
In the following tutorial you will learn to create an icon of an award medal. You will use various shapes and pathfinder techniques to make this great looking icon. This illustration can be made without the use of the Pen Tool, so it’s a great tutorial for beginners. You will be proud of the results!

Syringe Icon Tutorial
In this tutorial you will learn how to create a medical syringe icon with illustrator CS5.

Create a Simple Paint Brush Icon
Here you can learn to create a quite simple paintbrush icon. For this fast tutorial you’ll use some basic tools like the Rectangle Tool, the Ellipse Tool or the Pen Tool. Then, for some neat effects you’ll need the Wrinkle Tool or the Warp for rougher effects.

Create a Tasty Burger Icon in Illustrator
In this delicious tutorial the artist will show you how to create a three-dimensional, scrumptious burger using Adobe Illustrator.

Quick Tip: Create a Shiny Shield with Illustrator
In this Quick Tip, you’ll learn how to harness the Appearance panel to make the basic structure of a shiny, beveled shield. Once the structure is in place, a few well-placed gradients are all it takes to achieve a sharp, polished look.

How to Create a Simple Cardboard Box Icon
In this tutorial you will learn how to create a simple cardboard icon using 3D Extrude & Bevel and basic gradient fills.

How to Create a Shiny Bucket Icon
In this tutorial you will learn how to make a realistic vector bucket icon. You will learn to use the 3D Revolve function, how to add realistic light effects and how to draw different objects to form a composition.

How to Create a Hyper-realistic Flashlight
In this tutorial you will learn how to create a very realistic illustration of a flashlight. This style of illustration is particularly popular for icons and technical illustrations. Although this tutorial is more advanced than others, don’t let that dissuade you from giving it a go, you will find it’s written in an easy to understand format and the results will be worth the perseverance.

Create a Shimmering Cityscape in Perspective, Using Illustrator CS5
The Perspective tools in Illustrator CS5 make it a lot easier to draw in perfect one, two or three-point perspective. Using symbols in conjunction with the Perspective tools will make quick work of this stylized cityscape.

Create a Safe Icon in Adobe Illustrator
In the following tutorial you will learn to create a safe icon. We’ll use a variety of Adobe Illustrator tools and techniques to create this icon. Learn how to make a place to stash your vector gold. It’s all about the details you put into this design to give it a bit of shine.

Quick Tip: How to Create a Simple 3D Lollipop Icon
In the following tutorial you will learn to create a lollipop icon. By using some simple shapes and the Distort & Transform function, you will see just how easy it is to make a great looking icon.

Make a Headphones Icon Using Adobe Illustrator
In this tutorial you will learn how to create a realistic image of headphones using simple and understandable techniques. It turns out that to get a good result there is no need to do it in a complex way. This tutorial is easy for any beginner to complete.

Make a Mailbox Icon Using Adobe Illustrator
Attention! This icon was not created solely for educational purposes. You can see the working process of real designing! We are going to use various professional techniques to create this icon, and artist will give you many useful tips along the way.

How to Use the Perspective Grid to Create a Modern TV
In this tutorial you will learn how to create your own modern TV on a stand. Using the Perspective Grid in Illustrator CS5 as the basis of your work you will learn how to quickly create a product illustration with perfect perspective.

Create a Modern Style Icon with a Professional Finish
If you want to learn how how to create a professional level Hard Drive icon with shading and lighting the techniques, then we have an awesome tutorial for you.

How to Use the Opacity Mask to Make High Gloss Icons and Reflections
The Opacity Mask is a somewhat hidden feature in Adobe Illustrator. Mask work like Photoshop’s alpha channels to obscure parts of your artwork. In this Quick Tip, you’ll learn how to use Opacity Masks to make reflections and highlights on a vector icon.

How to Create a Stylish Wireless Phone
In this tutorial you will learn how to make a great looking Wireless Phone. You will be using Offset Path and various gradients to create a three dimensional phone with realistic highlights and reflections.

The Perfect Diamond
In this tutorial you will learn how to cut a perfect diamond.

Vector Retro Television
In this tutorial, you will be shown how to make a stylish retro looking television in Adobe Illustrator. You will learn how to draw basic shapes, modify them and apply gradient and gradient mesh for more realism. Hope you enjoy this illustrator tutorial.

How To Create a Colorful Logo Style Icon in Illustrator
Follow this step by step to create a vibrant and colourful logo style icon graphic. This style of abstract three dimensional shape has become a popular trend in the world of logo design. Today we’ll look at how to build the graphic in Illustrator using a range of tools and techniques.

Create a Simple Trunk Icon
In the following tutorial created by Andrei Marius, you can learn to create a simple trunk icon. This detailed Illustrator tutorial uses some Extrude & Bevel 3d effects, gradients, offsets, and other techniques that can be easily applied to other icons ans illustrations.

Create a Dirty Water Drop Character Icon
Did you know that 3.575 million people die each year from water-related disease? Moreover, 884 million people lack access to safe water supplies; approximately one in eight people. That’s pretty crazy! To spread the awareness about The Water Crisis, you can create the following Illustrator icon and learn more about the crisis at Change.org.

Quick Tutorial: Create A Sleek Bevel Styled Icon With Just a Few Illustrator Tools
I love simple and sleek looking icons. I love them even more when they’re easy to make, and completely versatile as a foundation for a ton of other icons. With a little practice, you can probably whip out some really beautiful icons in under a few minutes!

Create A Briefcase Icon
In this tutorial, you will be shown how to create a briefcase icon with rectangles, ellipses, and gradients. This briefcase icon is great for web designs and user interfaces. Moreover, you can easily apply these techniques to other icons, logos, and illustrations.

How to make a Calendar icon
This tutorial is for any and all of those users out there interested in icon development. In this tutorial you are going to learn how the folks at DryIcons made the Calendar Icon from their most popular icon set “Coquette”.

Create a Windows Vista Icon
In this video we will go from the very start of the process to the very end of the process of duplicating the “my computer” icon for Windows Vista and making it all vector.

Vector coffee cup tutorial Illustrator
In this tutorial you will learn how to make a realistic looking vector cup of coffee.

Simple Skull Vector Icon
In this tutorial you will learn how to create an easy, light skull vector icon.

Create a vector stop watch icon
In this tutorial you will learn how to create a vector stop watch icon in Adobe Illustrator. The tutorial is covering all the steps needed to create a great looking, realistic stop watch. Only the basic tools in Illustrator such as Ellipse, Rectangle, Gradient and transformations are used to achieve the result you see here.

How to Design a Realistic Gamepad
In this tutorial, you will learn how to create an illustration of a gamepad using the Pen Tool, Gradients and Filters. You can use this illustration as the basis of an icon or for a decorative element on a larger design.

How to Draw a Glossy Yo-Yo Icon using Adobe Illustrator
Entertain yourself with this tutorial on creating a glossy yo-yo icon. You will learn how to combine different gradient and object effects to make a hyper realistic and shiny plastic surface. The result is a perfectly rendered and appealing icon that can be made in just one hour!

Create a 6-egg box (not necessarily for Easter)
In this tutorial you will learn how to create a carton containing half a dozen eggs. We will use 3D Rotate and Revolve Effects. We will also play a lot with masks. You may download the source file (created in Illustrator CS4, back-saved to CS2+).

Create a yummy vector cupcake
In this tutorial you will learn how to create a tasty looking vector cupcake treat.

Design a 3D Digital Clock Icon with Illustrator
This tutorial will explain how to create a glossy and stylized digital clock from scratch in Adobe Illustrator composed of basic shapes and nifty gradients. We will make a vector icon that will be scalable to any size by taking advantage of designing icons and graphics using a vector-based application like Illustrator.

Create a 3D Shipping Package Box Icon in Illustrator
This icon design tutorial will discuss how to create a shipping box/parcel box icon from scratch using Adobe Illustrator. We will use the 3D Extrude & Bevel effect, the Pen Tool for drawing simple shapes, several panels like the Transparency Panel and the Gradient Panel, and other fundamental Illustrator features.

Vector printer tutorial Illustrator
In this tutorial you will learn how to make a realistic vector printer in Adobe Illustrator.

Create a Gift Box Illustration
In this next tutorial you will learn how to create an illustration of a gift box. You will be shown how to use the rectangle tool and the star tool to create a pattern and a symbol. For the box and the bow shapes you will use the 3D Extrude&Bevel effect, the Map Art option plus some Warp effects and Pathfinder options.

Create a Laptop Icon
In the following tutorial you can learn to create the icon of a laptop. Once you’ve created the basic shapes, it’s easy to continue with the other components. Give it a try and you might learn some interesting stuff about the role of Smart Guides and Rectangular Grid Tool.

Create a Neat Price Tag
In the following tutorial you will learn how to create a nifty little price tag. First, for the basic shape, the grid and the Snap to Grid will significantly ease your work. Then, for the rest of the illustration you’ll use the Pathfinder options, multiple gradients and strokes plus some basic effects and brushes.

Create a Cute and Simple Hippo Face
In the following tutorial you’ll learn to create a simple hippo face. It’s made with simple tool like the Ellipse Tool, the Rectangle Tool and the Rounded Rectangle Tool. Also, for some discrete details I added some basic effects like the Inner Glow or the Gaussian Blur.

How to Make an Opulent Chair Icon
In this tutorial, you will learn how to make a chair icon using gradient mesh, the pathfinder tool and the appearance panel. Don’t let this tut deceive you, with a bit of imagination you can create an entire collection of soft furnishing icons in minutes with a few easy tricks.

How to Illustrate a Marvelous Violin Icon
If you want to learn how to create a marvelous violin icon, then we have an awesome tutorial for you. This tutorial covers how basic shapes and a solid understanding of perspective and volume work together to quickly build a successful icon.

How to Create a Distinguished Personal Diary Icon
In this tutorial we are going to create a stylish personal diary icon using Illustrator CS4. Gradient is at the core of this tutorial and we will be taking look at it in close detail. You will also learn how to use the opacity mask to create drop reflections and shadows.

Create a Stylized First Aid Icon in Illustrator
In this tutorial we’ll use a combination of craft and Illustrator’s 3D tools to create a first aid icon. You can use the techniques you learn in this tutorial to create realistic rounded box icons of your choice. This works well for complex icons at large sizes and scales down nicely.

Design a Stylish Wallet Icon in Illustrator
In this simple tutorial you will be shown how to create the wallet icon from the Cute Little Factory’s Women’s Icons using Adobe Illustrator CS4.

Reflections Done Right – Creating a Money Roll Icon
Cash-in when you follow this tutorial for creating accurate and logical reflections. Learn how to use shading and masking to create an illustration that’s worth the look.

Create a Classic Calendar Icon
Here you’ll learn to create a classic calendar icon. It’s a pretty simple and fast tutorial. You only need to know how to use the basic tools and some effects like the Inner Glow, the Drop Shadow, the Transform effect, the Rounded Corners effect or the Warp effect.

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An attractive and compelling background adds depth to your graphics, banners or ads; and for this reason is of great importance. Sure there are some people who might not notice backgrounds, but the role they play in making the entire artwork look more interesting and visually alluring is paramount. They really do help to tie the entire piece together, no matter how simply or aggressively they are employed.

Here, we are showcasing some of the web’s truly amazing Abstract Background Design Photoshop Tutorials for our readers. Be you a PS enthusiast or junkie, you will surely want to take a look at the offerings we have compiled. Feel free to share your opinion with us.

Abstract Backgrounds Tutorials

Abstract Kaleidoscope Poster – Photoshop CS5
This tutorial lets you learn how to create an attention-grabbing kaleidoscope type poster in Photoshop CS5 by combining basic colors, shapes and brushes. A layered PSD file is included.

Abstract Starfield Background – Photoshop CS5
In this tutorial you will learn how to create a tremendous space scene in Photoshop CS5 by mixing different shapes, brushes and blending modes. A layered PSD file is included to help you get started!

Create Abstract Valentine’s Day Card
In this tutorial you will learn how to craft a vibrant Valentine’s Day card befitting of the day, by means of basic shapes and gradients in Adobe Photoshop CS5.

Create Awesome Abstract Nebula Circle Shape in Photoshop
Here the artist will take you through the steps he took to create this stunning abstract design. This is an intermediate level tutorial so proceed with care and be prepared.

Create Artistic Abstract Shapes via the Powerful Warp Tool in Photoshop
This tutorial shows you how to bring warp tool plus into play to generate great looking abstract shapes to beautify your design. The steps are truly simple and the effect can be used in a wide range of occasions.

Easily create planetary ring via cloud and twirl filter in photoshop.
In this tutorial, using the cloud and twirl tools you will be able to easily create a planetary ring no galaxy would be complete without.

Create Simple Abstract Shining Wave Line
Want to get trained on how to recreate this simple yet alluring abstract background? Simply follow this helpful tut.

Create a Detailed Meteorite and Surrounding Space Environment in Photoshop
In this intermediate level tutorial, the artist will show you the steps he took to create this detailed meteorite and surrounding space environment in photoshop. Some steps can be bit trickey, but the payoff is worthwhile.

Chroma Wallpapers
In this tutorial you will learn how to create a great abstract work of art combining a 3D-looking base with some various added effects.

Create a Wavy Blackberry Style Wallpaper Design
Here, Fabio Sasso teaches you how to create an abstract background image using Photoshop alone to give a cool wavy pattern with some eye-catching lighting effects to your work.

Abstract Lines Background
This tutorial guides you step by step on how to create an abstract lines background in Photoshop. This one is a must!

Calculations And Colorization
This Photoshop tutorial shows the creation of an Alpha Channel by means of the calculations dialog that will create a truly amazing abstract colorized photo effect.

Creating the new retro
Learn to give retro-style graphics your individual modern-day spin with this tutorial shared by Graphic designer, James White.

Drawing an Abstract Lightbulb
In this tutorial, you will learn a couple of techniques that include glows using layer styles, stroking path, particles using brush dynamics, and bokeh effects.

Abstract lighting effects
This tutorial guides you through creating some lighting effects with colorful wave elements by using Photoshop CS4. You can achieve the same results even if you have other versions of the program.

Space Lighting Effects in 10 Steps
Here, the artist is showing you how to quickly give life to a space scene with some pleasant lighting effects.

How to Create Brilliant Light Streaks in Photoshop
This tutorial will teach you some simple techniques for creating dazzling light streaks which can be utilized in different manners to add movement and brightness to your designs.

Create Abstract Colorful Balls illustration in Photoshop CS5
This drawing tutorial takes you through the formation of this abstract multicolored illustration with the use of simple tools and techniques like the Ellipse Tool, Brush Tool, Gradient Tool, Layer Style, etc. in CS5.

Create Abstract Background with Bokeh effect
Generate an abstract and vibrantly rich background with bokeh effects via Photoshop’s drawing tools, blending modes, and lighting techniques.

Luminescent Lines
A simple yet very powerful technique to create an abstract wallpaper or image that looks simply stunning and stylish.

Abstract Background of Colored Bars
An easy to follow and understand tutorial on how to design abstract backgrounds, wallpapers, greeting cards, designs, and all that other good stuff.

Abstract Image
Craft a fine-looking and amazing effect with just a few simple steps.

Cool abstract background
Here, the artist takes you through the steps employed to design abstract backgrounds from bubbles and waves using Photoshop.

Easy Abstract Photoshop Tutorial
Use a few brushes and effects to create a very simple abstract shape via the guiding hands of this tutorial.

Intense Solar Flare (Filter) Effect
In this tutorial you will learn how to create an outstanding abstract background using this intense solar flare effect.

Create a fantastic background texture
This tutorial lets you learn how to produce a fantastic background texture that you can customize for your own projects and purposes.

Abstract Airbrushing
In this tutorial you will learn how to create attractive abstract bursts of light for your renders.

Windows Vista Aurora Effect
A Photoshop tutorial which covers creating a Vista like background with aurora type effects.

Wallpaper Effect
This tutorial walks you through creating a warped effect that you can use to create artistic and profressional backgrounds and wallpapers.

TRENDY BACKGROUND
Simple technique by brush strokes for the creation of some fashionable backgrounds.

Digital Star Effect
In this tutorial you will learn how to give your work an effect reminiscent of shimmering sequins.

Mac-type background
This tutorial is focused on the subject of making a “mac” style background.

Signature Backgrounds
In this tutorial you will be taught how to create a nice abstract background that you are sure to become known for using.

Colourful Swirl
In this tutorial you will learn how to create a colorful swirl by using Adobe Photoshop.

Colorful Tornado
In this tutorial, you are being shown how to build a fine-looking vibrant tornado or pinwheel styled design in Photoshop.

Abstract Artsy Background
Here, you will learn how to create amazing abstract artsy backgrounds for any of your design works.

How to create abstract colorful rainbow background
Learn how to use Photoshop’s simple shapes, layer styles and gradients to generate a pleasant abstract rainbow background.

Aurora Borealis – North-South Polar Lights
In this tutorial, the artist is showing how you can recreate an Aurora Borealis type background by using Photoshop only.

Design Eye-catching Laser Particle Abstract Effect in Photoshop
Learn how easy it is in Photoshop to create these attention-grabbing laser particle effects. This is a beginner guide with simple and easy steps to follow.

Hexagon Bokeh Effect in Photoshop
In this tutorial, you will learn how to craft a digital bokeh effect using hexagons. Brush engine, patterns, blend modes and basic filters are used to accomplish this effect.

Creating Smoke
Learn to create a beautiful smoky effect for your designs by using Photoshop with the help of this tutorial.

Create a Rather Interesting, Wavy and Curving Abstract Shape Effect in Photoshop
This tutorial walks you through the formation of this somewhat appealing and colorful shape. A very detailed tutorial with large numbers of helpful screenshots.

Create beautiful hair-like abstract lines to decorate your design in photoshop.
Create stunning hair like line work and beautify your design with this easy to follow tutorial. This is novice level tutorial with the intention of teaching how to utilize the pen tool and dynamic brush setting.

Create Simple, Yet Elegant Abstract Spectrum Lines
Learn step by step how the artist has created this simple yet appealing abstract spectrum of lines that can be used for a wide range of purposes.

Create a Futuristic Abstract Wallpaper
Learn how to use various filters in PS to generate a wallpaper with a futuristic feel.

Creating a Stunning Digital Smoke Effect
This tutorial teaches you how to effortlessly create digital abstract smoke by means of both Illustrator and Photoshop. This technique is incredibly customizable and you can do it pretty swiftly.

How to Create an Interplay of Abstract Light Streaks
A detailed tutorial that will guide you through generating an series of abstract light streaks.

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