Adobe Illustrator Tutorial: How to Create a Vector Search Files Icon

In this Adobe Illustrator tutorial we will take a look at the process of creating a realistic icon, which encompasses a variety of techniques such as: 3D modeling, gradient fills and color work, different ways of creating shadows and highlights. Tutorial describes the basic principles of creating realistic vector objects, which will be useful to know for both novice and advanced users. The plugins developed by Astute Graphics were used in the process of creating an icon. They significantly speed up your work, making it more comfortable.

Step 1

Let's begin our tutorial with 3D modeling of the shape of the folder. Take the Pen Tool (P) and create an object that consists of two straight-line segments. This object must have no fill; as the stroke color, I chose a neutral gray color.

Keep the object selected, go to Effect > 3D > Extrude & Bevel .... By controlling the effect parameters in the dialog window, watch the changes in the shape of a folder.

We are creating a realistic icon, so do not forget to play with the Perspective parameter. In further steps we will check whether this feature works right.

Step 2

Now, let's do some measurements. For these purposes I will be using the Dynamic Measure Tool (VectorScribe plugin). With the help of this tool, measure the length of the straight-line segments AB and BC.

These dimensions correspond to the height of the parts of the folder. Its width equals to 300 pt and corresponds to the Extrude Depth, which we set in the first step.

Step 3

Create a rectangle using the Rectangle Tool (M). The dimensions of this rectangle should correspond to the back part of the folder (210 x 300 pt).

Using the Pen Tool (P), create two new points A and B on the left side of the rectangle. Select points B and C with the Direct Selection Tool (A), then move them to the right as it is shown in the picture below.

Step 4

Create a new rectangle. In this case its dimensions should correspond to the front part of the folder, which means they should equal to 175 x 300 pt.

Add two new points to the left side of this rectangle, and then change its shape, as it is shown in the picture below.

Drag the created shapes to the Symbols panel.

Step 5

Now let’s go back to the initially created 3D object. Open the Appearance panel and click on the name of the effect in order to get access to its parameters.

Click on the More Options button in the 3D Extrude & Bevel Options dialog window, then select the visible sides of the folder and apply the previously created symbols to them.

Now tick Invisible Geometry in the Map Art dialog window.

Click OK button in all the open dialog windows.

You can read full version of this vector tutorial on AstuteGraphics.com

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