In this lesson we're going to build a simple 1-point perspective grid in Illustrator that you can reuse over and over. Having a pre-made perspective grid handy when you're working on an illustration saves you plenty of time, hassle, and headache.

In the end you'll have a symbol saved in Illustrator that you can place into any illustration you're working on. Or easily import it into Photoshop, Procreate, and other programmes.

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Build a 1-Point Perspective Grid in Illustrator

In this lesson we're going to build a 2-point perspective grid in Illustrator by setting up a simple horizon line with two vanishing points. We'll save the grid as an illustrator symbol so that you can easily reuse it again in future illustration projects. 

In the end you'll have a symbol saved in Illustrator that you can place into any illustration you're working on. Or easily import it into Photoshop, Procreate, and other programmes.

I also demonstrate how to quickly build a set of cubes inside of the grid, to give you a sense of how easy it is to construct a realistic perspective scene using the grid guidelines.

Build a 2-Point Perspective Grid in Illustrator

In this lesson we'll create a simple 3-step gradient by blending together two colours. Blending is a great way to build a harmonious set of swatches that we can use as a base for our colour palettes.

I also demonstrate how I use 3-step blends to add stepped gradients and colour variation to my illustrations.

Simple 3-Step Colour Blending in Illustrator

Being able to quickly check what your illustration looks like in greyscale is essential to keeping the contrast in your design balanced. Keeping your value structure strong will lead to a striking and beautifully colourful piece by the end.

In this lesson we go over how to set up a quick keyboard shortcut that lets you preview what your illustration looks like in greyscale using the 'Proof Colours' menu options.

Illustration Lessons

Joel Hooks

Course Content